If anyone ever asks you to play or sing the US National Anthem at an event…make up any excuse you can to avoid it at all costs. Unless of course you enjoy being publicly crucified.
When Jimi Hendrix played the “Star Spangled Banner” at Woodstock in 1969 there were those who thought it was amazing and unique. And many who thought it was utter noise and disrespectful.
On April 13th 2016 Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers played a rendition of the National Anthem at an LA Lakers basketball game. Which of course set off a storm of criticism. Surprise.
Below is a video of the performance. You can judge for yourself.
Flea – National Anthem – LA Lakers Game (4/13/16)
Here is a different rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” that Flea played at another LA Lakers game exactly 2 years earlier.
Flea – National Anthem – LA Lakers Game (4/13/14)