Just some trivia concerning the national anthem and, of course, “God Bless America.”

To those of you over 65: Do you remember when the singer Kate Smith sang the national anthem? It was so quiet, you could hear a pin drop. And then when she sang “God Bless America,” it was so inspiring that – ask anyone – goosebumps would appear on people’s bodies.

That was then and this is now, when celebrities murder the national anthem. And, coming up to speed, did you hear Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie make a hash of “The Star-Spangled Banner” last Sunday? Even the ballplayers were confused and laughing at her pitiful singing. However, she did later apologize on the internet about her performance.

Call me old-fashioned, but I really do miss the old days.

Frank Slason

Somerville


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