Memorial Weekend Edition: Favorite Canes National Anthem Performers

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in all wars. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

I thought it would be fitting to look back at some of Carolina’s favorite National Anthem singers. Of course, I have start with Caniacs beloved Katherine “KK” Fritsch. Honestly, when someone other than KK steps out on the ice before a game I get anxious. Like players refusing to wash their lucky socks, I only want Miss Fritsch to sing the anthem. It’s just bad luck in my book.

North Carolina boasts two American Idol winners, Clay Aiken and Scotty Mc Creery. Clay’s performance wasn’t my favorite (see above), but here it is:

Scotty has attended many games with a few funny jumbo tron moments, but has yet to sing the National Anthem at a Canes game. However, he did sing for a North Carolina State University football game. Next season Scotty!

Chris Hendricks is another recording artist from the Triangle that sang the National Anthem. Mr. Hendricks was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age and he gave a heartwarming performance.

As prejudice as I am to KK, I remember getting goosebumps at the game from Carolina native Chelsie Allison’s performance.

There were many great National Anthems performed at PNC Arena, unfortunately many weren’t available on YouTube. What’s your favorite performance?