I remember the controversy and backlash that Feliciano endured...but he did ultimately ride it out...as for versions...I am an anti-country person but Faith Hill did a really good job, I think it was at the 2000 superbowl...to me some of the "personal versions" are very American, and reflect the diversity of the US. Some, like Rosanne Barr's ...are just a bad joke.
It did not ruin his career...go ahead and google the many albums he recorded after 1968, in fact he recorded chico and the man in 1975 a big hit in the US. He also composed the christmas classic "feliz navidad" which is played every year during the holidays....if there was any blacklist of his music that must be news for me and for the millions who embrace this talented musician.
Closed minded people hurt this legend's career and deprived us of more of his unique and soulful work. Wow, and imagine nowadays its commonplace for every talentless jack ass to attempt to put their spin on it even though they fall short. No wonder Hendrix got so much flack for his version as well.
beautiful renditon. the people who were booing dont' understand the concept of artistic interpretation. obviously they weren't true music lover's so who cares what they think. too bad that these mean spirited war mongerer's damaged this brilliant musician's career
World War II Veterans, especially in the infantry that takes most of the casualties, knew that the protests were by World War I and World War II Veterans that were "Rear Echelon Commandos" that had never and I mean never been in Combat. In other words were and are "the Scum of the Earth..." They were never, and I mean never in combat. Period...Dan O'Niallain
Jose sang that song with passion for his country. He didn't raise his fist in anger but shared in his heart what I and other American Hispanic's feel about this country and the promise that it still holds...freedom.
@rdangelo Idon't think this version is lame at all,a true artist would understand that what he did came from the heart,There are alot of artist today that just kill the anthem just because there using it as a vehicle to sell more records,Jose's version was pure and simple but full of soul.
Much love for Jose--the man who taught me how to play guitar. I wore out Feliciano! as a young kid trying to learn and it's stayed with me all those years.
Individualism is required for us to advance as a society. People that are threatened by things like this are threatened by reform. The types of people that want to live the 50's forever sorry it's not going to happen but you will find crowds likeminded as you good luck. God bless us all for our individual talents and what our God given talents, skills, and blessings from God bring to this world
The tune Key used was written by an English man John Stafford Smith a drinking song for theAnacreontic Society, a club in London. So get that right up your arse people who think a guy singinging the song with the original lyrics to the same tune in a (slightly) Latino style is "revolutionary"
The Star Spangled Banner was a poem set to the tune of an old drinking song. As long as it is sung with respect I think it is ok to try and sing it as beautifully as you can. Sorry Roseanne, I don't care for your version.
Either America is the land of the free, or it isn't. And 'free' doesn't mean only doing things that will offend no one. Jose's version was his personal musical vision, and he had the talent and the taste to create something enjoyable.
Best version ever Jose......I was 9 years old when I heard it on T.V and said to myself this is the first time I ever enjoyed the song.....Brings tears to my eyes..
How were people upset with this? It's not like he sang it in Spanish or something. Those people were probably upset because he wouldn't take off his sunglasses and wasn't serving in Vietnam.
@aoxomoxoadead ...is not possible compared this version (an anthem with a blending of great soul, personality, blues.. in two words: music and artist) with that tripper of roseanne barr, which is only a derespectble laught add on anthem.. two completly differents things... ;)
Jose, my Father was decorated with 2 Bronze Stars with Oak Leak Cluster with V-Device for Valor in World War II and thought and thinks to this day that you did a fine job on your rendition of the "National Anthem" in 1968. "The protesters were men that had never heard a shot fired in anger in combat. Period. The Legendary Dan Nealon
Yeah those were the same veterans though who were telling kids "you and your rock and roll music, it's the devil's calling card!" so I don't really care what some old WW2 veterans thought of Jose Feliciano. The Baby Boomers got it and that's all that matters. Jose Feliciano is one of the greatest musicians ever and is vastly respected by all people under the age of 60 today.
@vaibanez17 "I don't really care what some old WW2 veterans thought"
Show some DAMN RESPECT a**hole !! You live free because these brave men fought battles you can't even imagine. Fine, you like this version and don't care what others think. Thats all you had to say. Freakin' ungrateful jerk.
@ironman5454 So what you are saying is once a person serves in the Armed forces, especially in a war, everything they say should always be considered right and they should never be challenged when they say something that is wrong or that I disagree with? Didn't they fight for all my freedoms, including the freedom to disagree with what they have to say?
@vaibanez17 "fight for freedom"? do we still swallow that tripe? Do we repeat propaganda? Vietnam..freedoms? No, rubber. Iraq...oil, and you know this list goes on.
@TheyCallMeMrHappy We used to actually fight to keep bad things from happening but obviously ever since Vietnam that's not the case. I agree with you but in answer that person's criticism, I have to answer him in a language he will easily understand so as to not be over his head.
@vaibanez17 well that belief may just have been propaganda also...just that felt nice. There is ample proof to suggest there were those, people who are still in power today, that saw to the escalation of both ww1 and 2. And also profited from the global escalation.
Very beautiful. I heard this version for the first time last night when I was watching the Ken Burns followup documentary to his original baseball documentary. I find it respectful yet coming from Mr Feliciano's heart at the same time.
Jose Feliciano is a musical genius. I've been a fan of his for many decades. I can hardly believe that he was shunned for his heartfelt, beautiful and touching rendition of the national anthem. Like all those who have genius, Mr. Feliciano must forgive us regular folks for our ignorance. Thanks for all that you've given us!
Jose- Your Version of the "Star Spangled Banner" in 1968 is one of my favorite versions. Have your people request that you perform your outstanding version of "The Star Spangled Banner" in 2011 and tell the Producers at Network that Dan Kneeland said so. My Father served in the Armored Infantry in World War II and thought you did a fine version of our National Anthem and He has 2 Bronze Stars compared to those "Rear Echelon Commandos" that complained. Dan Kneeland, Grafton, Ma.
Why was this cut from the Detroit Tigers Essential Games dvd set? It just starts with the first pitch, like a lot of dvd releases of tv sports broadcasts.
How many Hispanics fought and died in WWII and Korea? A bunch. Measure a man by the content of his character not the color of his skin. Education replacing ignorance is the key to a more peaceful world. Great rendition Jose'.
I was a 10 year-old kid in Detroit in 1968 and couldn't understand then why people were unhappy about that version. I was happy that it was reprised for Ernie Harwell. God Bless Mr. Feliciano .
We need you to do this again!!!!! We need you to play the next world series. Our country needs you now just like we needed you in 1968 but they just didn't know it yet.
Although it was not sung as we know it, it was sung with respect by someone who loves this country. I was one of those that did not like in 68, but I have learned to respect Jose's version. If it was OK with Ernie, it is OK for me, and I hope the rest of those that love our country.
This version of our national anthem represents a person's true love of this country, whereas, most of today's self-righteous singers turn it into a song about a love for themselves only.
@98brooklynn people didn't like that it was sung differently. I don't mean to get political here, and am in NO WAY referencing Obama, but; people who have something against things changing where the ones having a heart attack over this. You know, cause shit should remain the same forever. That's progress.
RIP ERNIE HARWELL 1918-2010. Ernie chose Jose for the 1968 Series and was not only friends with Joe for the rest of his life but also vigorously defended Jose and his version of the Anthem. Jose will be at Comerica Park for the ERNIE HARWELL TRIBUTE Monday, May 10, 2010, As a Jazz musician myself, I champion trailblazers like Jose Feliciano.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
His mangling of the "Star Spangled Banner" occurred in October, 1968, at the start of the Fifth Game of the World Series, held at Detroit, Michigan. It created a huge controversy and rightly so. Countless other people have sung the song correctly, and his rendition of it was inexcusable.
@christianphi No, I do not. I was living in Detroit in 1968, and I know the controversy this caused at the time. The Vietnam war was in full swing, and many, many people thought that this "version" of the national anthem was a travesty, and that it was most disrespectful and unpatriotic for him to sing it in that fashion.
I am one of those people that doesnt like it when people sing the anthem different than the conventional way it was intended to be sung. But, I LOVE this version. One of the best performances ever.
There's two cd compilations on amazon store, one by Bmg called "The Definite Best", and another by Sony Legacy called "Light My Fire: The Very Best of Jose Feliciano" where's that live performance
It wasn't racism, I was around back then. It was merely the fact that he was the first to do it differently. Had he not been brown, but white or black, he'd have caught the same flack. Although I like this version and Jose, I'm a veteran myself, and prefer it to be sung the way that it was written. My two favorites of all time are from Garth Brooks at the Super Bowl in 1993 and Carrie Underwood at the MLB All-Star Game in 2006. They both sang it live (unlike some) and like it was written.
I can't believe this guy caught so much heat for singing the National Anthem this way, it's gotta be the best version I had heard to this day. And I don't even listen to country or blues. And if u look behind him, when he sings the NA at the World Series, you can see the guys behind him start to get nervous. Why?, because he sang it differently? U can tell, there was so much racism and stereotyping goin on, it's ridiculous. Good work, Jose.
I do not understand the logic of accusing someone of being a communist when they were singing a rendition of a national anthem. It is like saying: It's alright to deviate, as long as you do it on our terms. If that's not communist-like, what is? I suppose that anthem is part of the nation's identity and a perceived communist threat would heighten one's defensiveness.
How do you do it? How do you manage to make everything you do sound BETTER than the original? That has to be THE best rendition of our national anthem I have ever heard. Can't wait to go out and purchase some of your work Jose. Please someone tell me does this artist do gospel? I saw on his website he has some of his own original music out now and I know he is a Catholic Christian. Would love to buy some of his classical work as well as his rock n roll, jazz, etc.
It's sad to think that caused such an up roar. The Star Spangled banner should be a song used to reflect ones emotions, about oneself, about the situation the government is in. It would be one thing if he disrespected it, but Feliciano gave it his full respect by giving it a good tribute.
I wasn't even walking the planet when Jose sung at the now empty space at Michigan & Trumbull (where Tiger Stadium once stood).
I can say that I don't see what the commotion was about, I honestly enjoyed this version of the song. It is nice to hear the song interpreted the way that an artist would perform it as if it was their own song.
I don't think I'd want to see 50 Cent out there bussin' a rhyme to the National Anthem though.
Plato often warned Athenians not to fear their children being afraid of the dark but to be very concerned about grown men who were afraid to see the light. Our govt. and the media are afaid to see the light.
Blah blah blah! It's all the government's fault! It's all that mean old media's fault. It's never your fault of the fault of individuals for being stupid. naw, it has to be some imagined oppression!
@detoth67 You make no sense at all. I was just commenting on a blind person playing and singing our national anthem. The media and government pontificate "transparency" while they allegedly have perfect vision. Jose Feliciano lost his record contracts and was censored after simply playing our national anthem.
I am just asking those in the U.S. to end our contract with government and to censor the government. I do not trust conservative government and Fixed News.
I read one of Ernie Harwell's books, and he said there were also objections to Jose wearing shades and having his guide dog on the field. Jose had better vision then than a lot of people did. Ironicially, Ernie picked Marvin Gaye to sing it the day before, and he sang it totally straight, but 15 years later, see the clip at the right, he turned it into a gospel song and was cheered for it. Ernie's a WWII Marine, an ordained minister, and a published songwriter himself. But he knew it was OK.
i think 1968 was the bloodiest year in vietnam, i think martin and bobby were both assassinated in 68, the country was coming apart at the seems and the old very conservative establishment was still pulling the strings. along came a puerto rican named jose.
it's hard to imagine today, how shocking the youth movements were in those days.
baseballs weird, they started singing god bless america at every game after 9-11, some of that old conservative stubbornness still thrives.
It would be nice to think that we're getting past the era when a bunch of GOP's (Grumpy Old Pricks) own all of the culture and dictate taste...maybe with Hispanic Americans on the increase, those days will soon be behind us, and people like Jose can express their love for America with the talent and personality God gave them.
Americans just take huge pride in their national anthem, and were upset with the change of rhythm turned into a blues guitar. i enjoyed it, maybe too wrong for that year of time old white people were cranky
This is an amazing, respectful version of a song that is darn hard to sing. I would much rather hear this version than the screechy-voiced covers by so many of today's singers with so-called "big voices." This is our national anthem and should be treated as the treasure it is. I think Jose certainly did that!
Is amazing how racist people are ! if is latino or russian, who care is 2009 ! the world is becomming multicultural . Jose is american, but In 1968 was forbiden to do many things in the US or other countries . Short ago in Mexico you couldn't say " making love " in a song or you would be banned . If this happened the other way around, example: Elvis Presley woulded sing in his own way others country anthems, people woulded get mad also on 1968 .
The most heartfelt beautiful version of the Star Spangled Banner even to this day! The soul was real. Today's pop singers can massacre the song an carry on with their careers. This just about runied Jose's.
I remember the song - and the controversy. There were the people who loved and believed in the freedom of expression that was sweeping the world at that time - it originated as the Hippie movement and went well beyond that. Those who saw nothing wrong with Jose Feliciano's original, heartfelt rendition of the Star Spangled Banner were directly opposed by those who saw everything wrong with it. Someone has had to draw sociological lines vis a vis the lovers and the haters of this version.
Another time - Vietnam, Kennedy and Martin Luther King just killed, and a young Puerto Rican singing the Anthem differently - for some people it must be a thorn in their eye. Unfortunately even in this time there are lot of people who are not able to accept something different must not necessarily be something bad
Not to say there's not still enough around, but it's AMAZING how stupid and ignorant people used to be!!! Absolutely NOTHING wrong with the way he did that! I'm glad we don't have the "cookie cutter" society we used to have!!
What was wrong with Jose's version? It was beautiful, just like Jimi's version was. The public is a bunch of dumbass sheep who are afraid of anything new, progressive and original.
This is a great song sung by a great musician, and I dont see why everyone got upset by it. The way he did the song touched me, and I wasnt even alive to see it. My dad who not only is Puerto Rican, but a Veteran of the United States Army, loves this song, my mother who is also a veteran of the U.S. Army and not even Puerto Rican loves the way this song was sung. Its amazing how some people were, because I bet you those same people who criticized him then, sing his Feliz Navidad every Christmas!
Wonderful version Mr. Feliciano!! Wonderful! The so-called "purists" weren't angry over your rendition, they were angry over your skin. They can go to hell!
After you, sir. Stop playing the race card. Anyone, white or black, who butchered the national anthem in this manner would have incurred the wrath of the people. I was living in Detroit at the time, and people were shocked that anyone would have the effrontery to perform the "Star Spangled Banner," the musical symbol of our nation, in this matter.
bro thats no why people got mad, it was because before this, the national anthem wasnt sung, it was spoken like a poem. He didnt butchere it he in fact made it what it is today.
I agree! I don't think people really "listen" to the words when they sing the anthem. Most people don't even know the words. I don't have a problem with different interpretations if it's done in a respectful way. Jose's problems were caused by the times. It was 1968! The country was not very diverse at that time. I don't think his version is offensive. Roseanne Barr's version is offensive.
Yeah, Roseanne's version is absolutely nauseating. Why they even thought she should have the opportunity to come and take a dump on our National Anthem in the first place, I'll never figure out.
I remember when he sang that. I served in the USAR for a short time and consider myself very patriotic. I listened to the veteran's and I listened to all the backlash. My answer to all of them was, "When was the last time you actually listened to the National Anthem? At least people LISTENED to it. As much as I love any song, it is always refreshing when someoine else breathes a new life into it. I loved his way of singing it. It had much more emtion than the original.
I don't understand what was the problem with him. I'm Puerto Rican and my passport says on the front: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, COUNTRY OF BIRTH: Puerto Rico(U.S.A.), CITIZENSHIP: U.S. Citizenship. Every Puerto Rican is an american citizen by birth just like any other American. So, every Puerto Rican is American. I don't understand what was the problem with him and yes I'm Proud to be Puerto Rican and American. I am proud to be both.
He is great and I love him, there is NO problem with Jose. it was the idiot racist rednecks who have problems, I wish I could go to Puerto Rico and visit, my grandson is half Puerto Rican and half African American and he is beautiful
Fantastico!! I'm a New New Zealand Maori, indigenous to New Zealand or Aotearoa 'The Land of the long white cloud' as we Maori have known it since our ancestors arrival here from Hawaikiinui. Jose Feliciano I love this man and his music. I believe that only people who have a spiritual awareness of music can fully undertsand Jose and his music he is a peoples champion and I am including my own people here in Aotearoa. Love you Jose you are the best.
All these years later, it's hard to understand what the fuss was all about. Feliciano's version is lovely and reflective. Yet some idiots were calling for him to be deported, even though Puerto Ricans are American citizens --
No one is racist about this. The National Anthem is a sacred song. In 1968, anything "different" was considered radical, especially if it came from the music industry. If this song is performed with a spirit of reverence, respect, and honor, its just a variation of it. I think that Señor Felicianos is about the most beautiful version Ive ever heard. Just my opinion.
When Feliciano applied his style at singing the anthem, it was like a "taboo", it was something that was not common at the time, but nowadays, some singers sing the anthem their way, and the fans find it very acceptable and common.
I remember the controversy and backlash that Feliciano endured...but he did ultimately ride it out...as for versions...I am an anti-country person but Faith Hill did a really good job, I think it was at the 2000 superbowl...to me some of the "personal versions" are very American, and reflect the diversity of the US. Some, like Rosanne Barr's ...are just a bad joke.
martianshoes 4 days ago
It did not ruin his career...go ahead and google the many albums he recorded after 1968, in fact he recorded chico and the man in 1975 a big hit in the US. He also composed the christmas classic "feliz navidad" which is played every year during the holidays....if there was any blacklist of his music that must be news for me and for the millions who embrace this talented musician.
ricochecagou 4 days ago
How can anyone say that Jose version of the Star Spangles Banner was anything but beautiful?
Perhaps those that are being so vindictive preferred Rosann Barr's rendition! Jose did a wonderful job!
Darkwolfhowlslak 1 month ago 2
whoops, Star Spangled Banner, sorry!
Darkwolfhowlslak 1 month ago
@Darkwolfhowlslak amen brother
dlester46 4 weeks ago
@dlester46 Hi,
It's sister actually! :)
Darkwolfhowlslak 3 weeks ago
@Darkwolfhowlslak my apoplgy,sista ,the pic dosent do you justice
dlester46 3 weeks ago
@dlester46 , LOL! No it sure doesn't! ;)
Darkwolfhowlslak 3 weeks ago
Closed minded people hurt this legend's career and deprived us of more of his unique and soulful work. Wow, and imagine nowadays its commonplace for every talentless jack ass to attempt to put their spin on it even though they fall short. No wonder Hendrix got so much flack for his version as well.
abujorjj 1 month ago
beautiful renditon. the people who were booing dont' understand the concept of artistic interpretation. obviously they weren't true music lover's so who cares what they think. too bad that these mean spirited war mongerer's damaged this brilliant musician's career
darius595 2 months ago 2
World War II Veterans, especially in the infantry that takes most of the casualties, knew that the protests were by World War I and World War II Veterans that were "Rear Echelon Commandos" that had never and I mean never been in Combat. In other words were and are "the Scum of the Earth..." They were never, and I mean never in combat. Period...Dan O'Niallain
oldiesbutgoodies67 2 months ago
This guy is a true AMERICAN patriot....with a wonderful, personal rendition of an
lovely anthem....THE STAR SPANGLE BANNER. and I still love him....after all he is from my hometown, LARES.
1940ISA 2 months ago
they were racist and weren't ready for this yet.
nextel99 3 months ago 2
Jose sang that song with passion for his country. He didn't raise his fist in anger but shared in his heart what I and other American Hispanic's feel about this country and the promise that it still holds...freedom.
PocoPortillo 4 months ago 2
Opening the door for countless other lame, self-serving grandstanding versions. No respect. If it ruined his career, so be it.
rdangelo 4 months ago
@rdangelo Idon't think this version is lame at all,a true artist would understand that what he did came from the heart,There are alot of artist today that just kill the anthem just because there using it as a vehicle to sell more records,Jose's version was pure and simple but full of soul.
6547811 3 months ago 26
@6547811 it takes minimal talent to sing the notes EXACTLY the way they were written, it does take talent though to add your own flavour to it
RoTi39 1 month ago
I remember this very well. It was a strikingly different version but beautiful too.
lukespack 6 months ago
Jose, can you see....
Much love for Jose--the man who taught me how to play guitar. I wore out Feliciano! as a young kid trying to learn and it's stayed with me all those years.
ionahoopii 6 months ago
Dump this damned British beer drinking song and make "America the Beautiful" our national anthem.
ChrisDutch 7 months ago 2
Individualism is required for us to advance as a society. People that are threatened by things like this are threatened by reform. The types of people that want to live the 50's forever sorry it's not going to happen but you will find crowds likeminded as you good luck. God bless us all for our individual talents and what our God given talents, skills, and blessings from God bring to this world
redlinerl480 7 months ago
The tune Key used was written by an English man John Stafford Smith a drinking song for theAnacreontic Society, a club in London. So get that right up your arse people who think a guy singinging the song with the original lyrics to the same tune in a (slightly) Latino style is "revolutionary"
chimimac1 7 months ago 2
its beautiful, and a daring social experiment. ernie & josie are super cool. only marvin gaye's version better
MickM621 8 months ago
its beautiful, and a daring social experiment. ernie & josie are super cool
MickM621 8 months ago
I just read about this. That this was controversial only underscores how fucked up this country can be at the drop of a hat. It hasn't changed much.
cochranexyz 8 months ago
Sad just sad but that was in the 60's we've come along way baby.
dhburnett 9 months ago
one of the worlds top guitar players,, thank God his blind..... LOL!!!!!
petete21521 10 months ago
The Star Spangled Banner was a poem set to the tune of an old drinking song. As long as it is sung with respect I think it is ok to try and sing it as beautifully as you can. Sorry Roseanne, I don't care for your version.
TwinklesJR 11 months ago
Either America is the land of the free, or it isn't. And 'free' doesn't mean only doing things that will offend no one. Jose's version was his personal musical vision, and he had the talent and the taste to create something enjoyable.
TheBluescaster 11 months ago 5
I love this rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Sure beats the mess Christina Agularia made of it!
Halgrah 11 months ago 13
I don't understand why people were angry about this rendition. Someone enlighten me.
veganbuttercream 11 months ago 5
Best version ever Jose......I was 9 years old when I heard it on T.V and said to myself this is the first time I ever enjoyed the song.....Brings tears to my eyes..
bozeboo 1 year ago
How were people upset with this? It's not like he sang it in Spanish or something. Those people were probably upset because he wouldn't take off his sunglasses and wasn't serving in Vietnam.
And yes, I know he's blind.
RDBeatnik 1 year ago
apple pie compared to many modern day versions!
thecoolteacher 1 year ago
Hes as American as apple pie, my favorite version of the National Anthem
churley77 1 year ago 3
Comment removed
aoxomoxoadead 1 year ago
Respond to this video... Apple pie compared to Roseanne Barr.
aoxomoxoadead 1 year ago
@aoxomoxoadead ...is not possible compared this version (an anthem with a blending of great soul, personality, blues.. in two words: music and artist) with that tripper of roseanne barr, which is only a derespectble laught add on anthem.. two completly differents things... ;)
Top100Guitarist 1 year ago
PLATOON AATTEENNTTIIOONN
PRSENT ARMS
ORDER ARMS
booksbenji 1 year ago
Jose, my Father was decorated with 2 Bronze Stars with Oak Leak Cluster with V-Device for Valor in World War II and thought and thinks to this day that you did a fine job on your rendition of the "National Anthem" in 1968. "The protesters were men that had never heard a shot fired in anger in combat. Period. The Legendary Dan Nealon
swordofconstantine1 1 year ago
He makes me proud to be an American and a Puerto Rican.
dann3th3manni3 1 year ago
Yeah those were the same veterans though who were telling kids "you and your rock and roll music, it's the devil's calling card!" so I don't really care what some old WW2 veterans thought of Jose Feliciano. The Baby Boomers got it and that's all that matters. Jose Feliciano is one of the greatest musicians ever and is vastly respected by all people under the age of 60 today.
vaibanez17 1 year ago
@vaibanez17 "I don't really care what some old WW2 veterans thought"
Show some DAMN RESPECT a**hole !! You live free because these brave men fought battles you can't even imagine. Fine, you like this version and don't care what others think. Thats all you had to say. Freakin' ungrateful jerk.
ironman5454 11 months ago
@ironman5454 So what you are saying is once a person serves in the Armed forces, especially in a war, everything they say should always be considered right and they should never be challenged when they say something that is wrong or that I disagree with? Didn't they fight for all my freedoms, including the freedom to disagree with what they have to say?
vaibanez17 11 months ago
@vaibanez17 "fight for freedom"? do we still swallow that tripe? Do we repeat propaganda? Vietnam..freedoms? No, rubber. Iraq...oil, and you know this list goes on.
TheyCallMeMrHappy 11 months ago
@TheyCallMeMrHappy We used to actually fight to keep bad things from happening but obviously ever since Vietnam that's not the case. I agree with you but in answer that person's criticism, I have to answer him in a language he will easily understand so as to not be over his head.
vaibanez17 11 months ago
@vaibanez17 well that belief may just have been propaganda also...just that felt nice. There is ample proof to suggest there were those, people who are still in power today, that saw to the escalation of both ww1 and 2. And also profited from the global escalation.
TheyCallMeMrHappy 11 months ago
@vaibanez17 No, I just said show some 'respect' for the people who fought so you can live free.
"I don't really care what some old WW2 veterans thought" sounds/is VERY disrespectful. If you were brought up right then you should understand this.
ironman5454 11 months ago
Very beautiful. I heard this version for the first time last night when I was watching the Ken Burns followup documentary to his original baseball documentary. I find it respectful yet coming from Mr Feliciano's heart at the same time.
emerybayblues 1 year ago
Great job Jose. Sad they responded that way.
lovethe1wolves 1 year ago 2
thanks for sharing! god bless you
emsterdemshe 1 year ago
It was nice that it was included on The Tenth Inning of the Ken Burns series, Baseball.
Dannypuck 1 year ago
@furtive9 and a million other sites.........
Zeph100 1 year ago
Jose Feliciano is a musical genius. I've been a fan of his for many decades. I can hardly believe that he was shunned for his heartfelt, beautiful and touching rendition of the national anthem. Like all those who have genius, Mr. Feliciano must forgive us regular folks for our ignorance. Thanks for all that you've given us!
mikefinch53 1 year ago 2
Jose- Your Version of the "Star Spangled Banner" in 1968 is one of my favorite versions. Have your people request that you perform your outstanding version of "The Star Spangled Banner" in 2011 and tell the Producers at Network that Dan Kneeland said so. My Father served in the Armored Infantry in World War II and thought you did a fine version of our National Anthem and He has 2 Bronze Stars compared to those "Rear Echelon Commandos" that complained. Dan Kneeland, Grafton, Ma.
oniallain1965 1 year ago
Why was this cut from the Detroit Tigers Essential Games dvd set? It just starts with the first pitch, like a lot of dvd releases of tv sports broadcasts.
Knightmessenger 1 year ago
Best Puerto Rican musician ever!
TheKeepers12 1 year ago
i liked his star spangled banner though lol
daniel21396 1 year ago
How many Hispanics fought and died in WWII and Korea? A bunch. Measure a man by the content of his character not the color of his skin. Education replacing ignorance is the key to a more peaceful world. Great rendition Jose'.
tubetoomer 1 year ago
@tubetoomer words to live by.
christianphi 1 year ago
Jose did a great job as he does on every song. Some people....bleh!
mandymooligan 1 year ago 2
I found the recording of this live performance on iTunes. I also loved his redoing of this at Ernie Harwell's tribute.
rocknroller111 1 year ago
Awesome. Thank you,Mr. Feliciano.
yadramamama 1 year ago
Americans upset at expression for a country that won independence for freedom of expression.
It was beautiful and that is the version I like best.
bronco3250 1 year ago
The main reason of the reaction was because he was a Hispanic
yaguaron 1 year ago
I was a 10 year-old kid in Detroit in 1968 and couldn't understand then why people were unhappy about that version. I was happy that it was reprised for Ernie Harwell. God Bless Mr. Feliciano .
19music57 1 year ago
We need you to do this again!!!!! We need you to play the next world series. Our country needs you now just like we needed you in 1968 but they just didn't know it yet.
tiesthatbind08 1 year ago
This is my absolute FAVORITE version of the song EVER! Tears always well up.
MrNewerbeg 1 year ago 2
White people back then just did`nt like the ethnic way Jose sung the anthem because most were racist.
craigblast 1 year ago 2
F Scott Key would have been proud!!
frogsoda 1 year ago
I WAS THERE HORTON THROWS OUT BROCK
jba2323 1 year ago
HIS redition of the song is great.
parakeet8157 1 year ago
The 68 series happened when I was eight, living in Southfield. We claim Jose' as one of the tribe, he is a true gentleman.
I thank him for showing up for Tiger broadcaster Ernie Harwell memorial service; where he reprised his version of the anthem, at Ernie's request.
joebearhughes 1 year ago
its funny how the old fellows behind him start to move and look each other when he sings.
reverendlovejoy 1 year ago
Although it was not sung as we know it, it was sung with respect by someone who loves this country. I was one of those that did not like in 68, but I have learned to respect Jose's version. If it was OK with Ernie, it is OK for me, and I hope the rest of those that love our country.
iamzbacku 1 year ago
This version of our national anthem represents a person's true love of this country, whereas, most of today's self-righteous singers turn it into a song about a love for themselves only.
rlfmichigan 1 year ago
I do not see what is wrong with this.
98brooklynn 1 year ago
@98brooklynn people didn't like that it was sung differently. I don't mean to get political here, and am in NO WAY referencing Obama, but; people who have something against things changing where the ones having a heart attack over this. You know, cause shit should remain the same forever. That's progress.
WHATISUTUBE 1 year ago
RIP ERNIE HARWELL 1918-2010. Ernie chose Jose for the 1968 Series and was not only friends with Joe for the rest of his life but also vigorously defended Jose and his version of the Anthem. Jose will be at Comerica Park for the ERNIE HARWELL TRIBUTE Monday, May 10, 2010, As a Jazz musician myself, I champion trailblazers like Jose Feliciano.
JeffreyStewartNewton 1 year ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
His mangling of the "Star Spangled Banner" occurred in October, 1968, at the start of the Fifth Game of the World Series, held at Detroit, Michigan. It created a huge controversy and rightly so. Countless other people have sung the song correctly, and his rendition of it was inexcusable.
mindspring57 1 year ago
@mindspring57 eh excuse me dont you have a klan meeting to get to? you ignorant racist.
christianphi 1 year ago 2
@christianphi No, I do not. I was living in Detroit in 1968, and I know the controversy this caused at the time. The Vietnam war was in full swing, and many, many people thought that this "version" of the national anthem was a travesty, and that it was most disrespectful and unpatriotic for him to sing it in that fashion.
mindspring57 1 year ago
Probably the best version I've ever heard. You really have to wonder how anyone could have had a problem with this. Morons.
badtown88 1 year ago 5
he did a beautiful job
pedricolas 1 year ago 2
i love it.
Ralfmunky 1 year ago
Love the way he sings it, notice now how everyone put their own spin on the anthem,he should be invited to sing it at the world series again.
lapicacamuy 1 year ago 2
I am one of those people that doesnt like it when people sing the anthem different than the conventional way it was intended to be sung. But, I LOVE this version. One of the best performances ever.
wheelzybaby 1 year ago 15
Thanks Top 100!
MoJoQuatro 1 year ago
Does anyone know where I can get the full version of this performance? Must have!
MoJoQuatro 1 year ago 2
There's two cd compilations on amazon store, one by Bmg called "The Definite Best", and another by Sony Legacy called "Light My Fire: The Very Best of Jose Feliciano" where's that live performance
Top100Guitarist 1 year ago
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MoJoQuatro 1 year ago
Anyone who would be offended by this is a complete moron, this is actually the best version I've heard of the song.
THOUSANDAlRE 2 years ago 6
I actually really like this version of the song.
bionicbigfoot 2 years ago
cool vid
bloodychainsawkiller 2 years ago
It wasn't racism, I was around back then. It was merely the fact that he was the first to do it differently. Had he not been brown, but white or black, he'd have caught the same flack. Although I like this version and Jose, I'm a veteran myself, and prefer it to be sung the way that it was written. My two favorites of all time are from Garth Brooks at the Super Bowl in 1993 and Carrie Underwood at the MLB All-Star Game in 2006. They both sang it live (unlike some) and like it was written.
wb1 2 years ago
I can't believe this guy caught so much heat for singing the National Anthem this way, it's gotta be the best version I had heard to this day. And I don't even listen to country or blues. And if u look behind him, when he sings the NA at the World Series, you can see the guys behind him start to get nervous. Why?, because he sang it differently? U can tell, there was so much racism and stereotyping goin on, it's ridiculous. Good work, Jose.
DOME5CALL 2 years ago 2
Jose's version of the "Star Spangled Banner" makes all veterans today have enjoyable goose bumps. Dan O'Niallain, Grafton, Mass.
oniallain1965 2 years ago 4
There ya go Ernie :-)
Sundevilhp29 2 years ago
Jose Feliciano and Ernie Harwell are the kind of Americans who made this country great. We need more people like that now.
stearnsybears 2 years ago 41
I do not understand the logic of accusing someone of being a communist when they were singing a rendition of a national anthem. It is like saying: It's alright to deviate, as long as you do it on our terms. If that's not communist-like, what is? I suppose that anthem is part of the nation's identity and a perceived communist threat would heighten one's defensiveness.
DJBucs2005 2 years ago
Comment removed
badtown88 1 year ago
i love his songs
deZibeL8 2 years ago
It was released as a single charting for 5 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #50 according to Wikipedia
zorak2025 2 years ago
How do you do it? How do you manage to make everything you do sound BETTER than the original? That has to be THE best rendition of our national anthem I have ever heard. Can't wait to go out and purchase some of your work Jose. Please someone tell me does this artist do gospel? I saw on his website he has some of his own original music out now and I know he is a Catholic Christian. Would love to buy some of his classical work as well as his rock n roll, jazz, etc.
zorak2025 2 years ago
It's sad to think that caused such an up roar. The Star Spangled banner should be a song used to reflect ones emotions, about oneself, about the situation the government is in. It would be one thing if he disrespected it, but Feliciano gave it his full respect by giving it a good tribute.
Bluesmen88 2 years ago 3
I wasn't even walking the planet when Jose sung at the now empty space at Michigan & Trumbull (where Tiger Stadium once stood).
I can say that I don't see what the commotion was about, I honestly enjoyed this version of the song. It is nice to hear the song interpreted the way that an artist would perform it as if it was their own song.
I don't think I'd want to see 50 Cent out there bussin' a rhyme to the National Anthem though.
trewsdetroit5 2 years ago
who says there should only be one way of playing the anthem? its not like your burning the flag by playing the anthem in a different way.
r4scuache 2 years ago 2
Not all conservatives are ignorant and stupid, but the ones who express their outrage through anger and the most vocal ones most certainly are.
detoth67 2 years ago
I remember hearing it live - I was never so moved by our national anthem!!
Jose gave it a whole new meaning for me.
barj98 2 years ago 3
Hey...even a good conservative like Ted Nugent liked it.
generalbullmoose 2 years ago
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MusicMasterB12 2 years ago
que viva latino america CARAJOO!
shiiat123 2 years ago
Plato often warned Athenians not to fear their children being afraid of the dark but to be very concerned about grown men who were afraid to see the light. Our govt. and the media are afaid to see the light.
softsouthernknight 2 years ago 2
Blah blah blah! It's all the government's fault! It's all that mean old media's fault. It's never your fault of the fault of individuals for being stupid. naw, it has to be some imagined oppression!
detoth67 2 years ago
@detoth67 You make no sense at all. I was just commenting on a blind person playing and singing our national anthem. The media and government pontificate "transparency" while they allegedly have perfect vision. Jose Feliciano lost his record contracts and was censored after simply playing our national anthem.
I am just asking those in the U.S. to end our contract with government and to censor the government. I do not trust conservative government and Fixed News.
softsouthernknight 2 years ago
Sorry, I misread your post. Nothing to see here, carry on!
detoth67 2 years ago
I read one of Ernie Harwell's books, and he said there were also objections to Jose wearing shades and having his guide dog on the field. Jose had better vision then than a lot of people did. Ironicially, Ernie picked Marvin Gaye to sing it the day before, and he sang it totally straight, but 15 years later, see the clip at the right, he turned it into a gospel song and was cheered for it. Ernie's a WWII Marine, an ordained minister, and a published songwriter himself. But he knew it was OK.
UncleMikeNJ 2 years ago 2
I am so sorry for this man. What a shame on all those assholes who did not see beyond their noses :(
moonnightwalk 2 years ago 6
This is the way Jose sings. What did they expect?
senoramariposa 2 years ago 4
Ernie Harwell hired the guy to do the Antheme. Ernie is a broadcasting legend and the quenessential southern religious gentleman.
Old white dudes just got problems...especially in 68
fuzzynormal 2 years ago 4
i think 1968 was the bloodiest year in vietnam, i think martin and bobby were both assassinated in 68, the country was coming apart at the seems and the old very conservative establishment was still pulling the strings. along came a puerto rican named jose.
it's hard to imagine today, how shocking the youth movements were in those days.
baseballs weird, they started singing god bless america at every game after 9-11, some of that old conservative stubbornness still thrives.
tomitstube 2 years ago 5
It would be nice to think that we're getting past the era when a bunch of GOP's (Grumpy Old Pricks) own all of the culture and dictate taste...maybe with Hispanic Americans on the increase, those days will soon be behind us, and people like Jose can express their love for America with the talent and personality God gave them.
moproducer 2 years ago 7
Government in general needs to keep its hands out of culture in general. Only then it will flourish.
QustionAuthority1506 2 years ago
"A government-supported artist is an incompetent whore!" Robert A. Heinlein, Stranger in a Strange Land
generalbullmoose 2 years ago
Americans just take huge pride in their national anthem, and were upset with the change of rhythm turned into a blues guitar. i enjoyed it, maybe too wrong for that year of time old white people were cranky
krgrubbs 2 years ago 2
Considering that our national anthem began as a drinking song about an alcoholic poet, I think we should just effing relax.
It was a great take.
jaimymoore 2 years ago 2
Were they?
avanpeltno2fan 2 years ago
This is an amazing, respectful version of a song that is darn hard to sing. I would much rather hear this version than the screechy-voiced covers by so many of today's singers with so-called "big voices." This is our national anthem and should be treated as the treasure it is. I think Jose certainly did that!
pellebravesskylar 2 years ago 49
hey, guess what! America is still invading countries and killing young innocent children, some things never change...
inthebluescrossroad 2 years ago
I don't get it. what the hell he did wrong?
ArikBulldog 2 years ago 6
Sorry, S.S.B
stripemister 2 years ago
Jose, you lit my fire singing the S.B.B. Great job.
stripemister 2 years ago 2
Is amazing how racist people are ! if is latino or russian, who care is 2009 ! the world is becomming multicultural . Jose is american, but In 1968 was forbiden to do many things in the US or other countries . Short ago in Mexico you couldn't say " making love " in a song or you would be banned . If this happened the other way around, example: Elvis Presley woulded sing in his own way others country anthems, people woulded get mad also on 1968 .
olgal30 2 years ago
The most heartfelt beautiful version of the Star Spangled Banner even to this day! The soul was real. Today's pop singers can massacre the song an carry on with their careers. This just about runied Jose's.
dropover 2 years ago 4
I remember the song - and the controversy. There were the people who loved and believed in the freedom of expression that was sweeping the world at that time - it originated as the Hippie movement and went well beyond that. Those who saw nothing wrong with Jose Feliciano's original, heartfelt rendition of the Star Spangled Banner were directly opposed by those who saw everything wrong with it. Someone has had to draw sociological lines vis a vis the lovers and the haters of this version.
utcommerce 2 years ago 4
Why was there uproar over this? This is a timeless rendition.
FallGuy82 2 years ago
Another time - Vietnam, Kennedy and Martin Luther King just killed, and a young Puerto Rican singing the Anthem differently - for some people it must be a thorn in their eye. Unfortunately even in this time there are lot of people who are not able to accept something different must not necessarily be something bad
sp72929 2 years ago 2
Not to say there's not still enough around, but it's AMAZING how stupid and ignorant people used to be!!! Absolutely NOTHING wrong with the way he did that! I'm glad we don't have the "cookie cutter" society we used to have!!
nashtndawg 2 years ago 5
because hes diffrent hes not american thast why
chase4609 2 years ago
hes puerto rican. like me :) which is american.
JSKinnovations 2 years ago
Puerto Ricans are Americans, This was a beautiful way he sung it, I have it on my reel to reel with Ray Charles's America,
siugal 2 years ago
What was wrong with Jose's version? It was beautiful, just like Jimi's version was. The public is a bunch of dumbass sheep who are afraid of anything new, progressive and original.
Bopalena 2 years ago 5
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lflan1 3 years ago
This man just one his 8th Grammy !
He won 2 Grammy´s in 1968 and after all this years - he won 2 in the last few months one Latin Grammy in November and now a Grammy
sp72929 3 years ago
This is a great song sung by a great musician, and I dont see why everyone got upset by it. The way he did the song touched me, and I wasnt even alive to see it. My dad who not only is Puerto Rican, but a Veteran of the United States Army, loves this song, my mother who is also a veteran of the U.S. Army and not even Puerto Rican loves the way this song was sung. Its amazing how some people were, because I bet you those same people who criticized him then, sing his Feliz Navidad every Christmas!
Ajmtornado 3 years ago 3
it was because before this, the national anthem wasnt sung, it was spoken like a poem. He didnt butchere it he in fact made it what it is today.
donkeymono 2 years ago
Thanks for breaking the mold Mr. Feliciano.
There's always a first.
canycme 3 years ago 3
Wonderful version Mr. Feliciano!! Wonderful! The so-called "purists" weren't angry over your rendition, they were angry over your skin. They can go to hell!
mlr710 3 years ago 2
After you, sir. Stop playing the race card. Anyone, white or black, who butchered the national anthem in this manner would have incurred the wrath of the people. I was living in Detroit at the time, and people were shocked that anyone would have the effrontery to perform the "Star Spangled Banner," the musical symbol of our nation, in this matter.
mindspring57 2 years ago
bro thats no why people got mad, it was because before this, the national anthem wasnt sung, it was spoken like a poem. He didnt butchere it he in fact made it what it is today.
donkeymono 2 years ago
People who pull the race card need to be shot.
TheNilvarg 2 years ago
THen I guess that means you're gone! Say hi to Lucifer for me!
mlr710 2 years ago
Wow, that was really weak.
TheNilvarg 2 years ago
And now, of course, this deviancy (and every other kind) has been normalized. Wonderful!
Jitpring 3 years ago
Cosmicrayola-
I agree! I don't think people really "listen" to the words when they sing the anthem. Most people don't even know the words. I don't have a problem with different interpretations if it's done in a respectful way. Jose's problems were caused by the times. It was 1968! The country was not very diverse at that time. I don't think his version is offensive. Roseanne Barr's version is offensive.
NYC218 3 years ago
Yeah, Roseanne's version is absolutely nauseating. Why they even thought she should have the opportunity to come and take a dump on our National Anthem in the first place, I'll never figure out.
TheNilvarg 2 years ago
I remember when he sang that. I served in the USAR for a short time and consider myself very patriotic. I listened to the veteran's and I listened to all the backlash. My answer to all of them was, "When was the last time you actually listened to the National Anthem? At least people LISTENED to it. As much as I love any song, it is always refreshing when someoine else breathes a new life into it. I loved his way of singing it. It had much more emtion than the original.
cosmicrayola 3 years ago 2
that's cool that you were there when this happened. It's nice to hear a witness of the account
wasnotinvain 2 years ago
my hero!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cadiz215 3 years ago 2
But are blacks and whites truly equal all around?
dahoss65 3 years ago
I don't understand what was the problem with him. I'm Puerto Rican and my passport says on the front: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, COUNTRY OF BIRTH: Puerto Rico(U.S.A.), CITIZENSHIP: U.S. Citizenship. Every Puerto Rican is an american citizen by birth just like any other American. So, every Puerto Rican is American. I don't understand what was the problem with him and yes I'm Proud to be Puerto Rican and American. I am proud to be both.
Armando17717 3 years ago 2
woww SAME AS MEE!!!
eddielizb 3 years ago
He is great and I love him, there is NO problem with Jose. it was the idiot racist rednecks who have problems, I wish I could go to Puerto Rico and visit, my grandson is half Puerto Rican and half African American and he is beautiful
siugal 2 years ago 3
Jose Feliciano,
Fantastico!! I'm a New New Zealand Maori, indigenous to New Zealand or Aotearoa 'The Land of the long white cloud' as we Maori have known it since our ancestors arrival here from Hawaikiinui. Jose Feliciano I love this man and his music. I believe that only people who have a spiritual awareness of music can fully undertsand Jose and his music he is a peoples champion and I am including my own people here in Aotearoa. Love you Jose you are the best.
Tamaterangi Andrew. Maori
roselovejaneausten 3 years ago 2
this didnt hurt his career he is great!!!
Cadiz215 3 years ago
I downloded it to my ipod, and damn it I can't stop listening to it! It sounds really nice!
Kenor12 3 years ago
All these years later, it's hard to understand what the fuss was all about. Feliciano's version is lovely and reflective. Yet some idiots were calling for him to be deported, even though Puerto Ricans are American citizens --
stevevandien 3 years ago
yes, isn't the annihilation of social discipline wonderful?
diakr0n 3 years ago
What A Great, Great Arrangement Jose, You Sang And Strom That Song, God Bless You!
The Man From Motown,
DP
DuaneParham 3 years ago
jose talent was way too up front to this mothefukers to comprehends,,,fuck ignorants racists,,que viva puerto rico y america latina,,
mazkmea 3 years ago
No one is racist about this. The National Anthem is a sacred song. In 1968, anything "different" was considered radical, especially if it came from the music industry. If this song is performed with a spirit of reverence, respect, and honor, its just a variation of it. I think that Señor Felicianos is about the most beautiful version Ive ever heard. Just my opinion.
5xls 3 years ago
La gran "democracia" americana en todo su apogeo.
1968, same year blacks and whites where considered equal in the american justice system. Yes, only 40 years ago.
crespopc 3 years ago
Jose is Our Home Town Hero!VIVA LA LECHI DI POTI!VIVA LARES!
motocrosspr 3 years ago
Diablos! Acabas de capturar la escencia de el Lareño ( y areas limitrofes)
Me acabas de traer tantos recuerdos de cuando visitaba a mis familiares en esa area! Valgame bizne!
babilla45 3 years ago
When Feliciano applied his style at singing the anthem, it was like a "taboo", it was something that was not common at the time, but nowadays, some singers sing the anthem their way, and the fans find it very acceptable and common.
ChiviChing 3 years ago