Marvin Gaye version of The Star Spangled Banner is easily one of the most famous performances of the U.S. national anthem. Written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, the lyrics were derived from a poem entitled Defence of Fort McHenry, and reflect events that took place during the War of 1812. However, Gaye’s rendition at the 1983 NBA All-Star Game transformed it into a soulful R&B slow jam, setting a new standard for pop stars attempting to add their own unique touch to patriotic tunes.
Marvin Gaye’s Star Spangled Banner Lyrics
| Attribute | Details |
| Song Title | The Star-Spangled Banner |
| Original Lyrics By | Francis Scott Key |
| Original Year Written | 1814 |
| Marvin Gaye’s Performance | 1983 NBA All-Star Game |
| Genre | R&B, Soul, Patriotic |
| Unique Feature | Smooth, rhythmic, and soulful interpretation |
| Cultural Impact | Considered one of the greatest renditions of the U.S. national anthem |
Marvin Gaye’s Star Spangled Banner Lyrics
O say can you see
By the dawn’s early light
What so proudly we hailed
At the twilight’s last gleaming
Whose broad stripes and bright stars
Through the perilous fight, oh, Lord
Oh, the fight
O’er the ramparts we watched
Were they so gallantly, yeah, streaming?
And the rockets red glare
The bombs bursting in air
Gave proof through the night
That our flag was still there
O say does thy star-spangled banner yet wave
For the land of the free
And the home of the, home of the brave
Oh, Lord, woo
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