High Five for the 4th of July!

In honor of the 4th of July, today I'd like to share five of my favorite versions of the National Anthem.

Gaither Vocal Band
The Gaither Vocal Band grew from Bill Gaither's "personal passion for great harmony and genuine desire to bring meaningful music to a hurting world" and is now "known around the world for their powerhouse vocals, innovative harmonies, and life-altering message…of grace, hope, and redemption". Their version of the National Anthem is musically both simple and complex, and gives me chills.

EJH Red & White Concert
I first saw this clip when it went viral last summer and to this day it remains one of my favorite versions of the National Anthem. The band's performance is not technically perfect, nor does their musical rendition offer anything out of the ordinary, but you can't walk away from watching this version of the National Anthem feeling anything but faith in the young people of and pride for our country.

Lady Antebellum
I enjoy nearly everything that comes out of the Lady Antebellum camp (especially their Christmas album) - all three have lovely voices, and as a band they choose/write great songs, perform unique harmonies, and take the stage with a powerful yet inclusive presence - and their version of the National Anthem is no exception.

Fightin' Texas Aggie Band
I've yet to see the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band perform in person, but doing so - especially their version of the National Anthem - is on my Texas Bucket List.

The Dixie Chicks
I jumped on board The Dixie Chicks train when it first left the station years ago, and have loved these three ladies ever since. I'm fairly certain they're lip-syncing (to their own studio recording, of course) in this clip from the Super Bowl, but their harmonies and blend in that recording can't be beat.

Beyonce
Beyonce may have lip-synced during the Presidential Inauguration, but she more than proved herself when she performed - and nailed - her version of the National Anthem live a few days later.

Ok, so that's actually six versions of the National Anthem instead of five - I couldn't narrow it down any further.

Happy 4th of July, friends!