email:  ckoplien@todaystmj4.com

Let me start by saying that I'm not one of those ultra-traditionalists that dislikes it when performers put a little style into the National Anthem.  I've heard many versions that were a little out of the box that I liked quite a bit.

However, last night there was a version that should be kept inside a box.  A box secured with several layers of duct tape...then locked in a lead safe...and dropped in the ocean.

What I'm trying to say is I didn't like it much.

The Anthem was performed by Patti LaBelle before Game 4 of the World Series in Philadelphia.

If you want to check it out, go here...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Viqqn-iBicQ

Now I'm sure Patti LaBelle is a very nice lady...but I think I got whiplash from how violently she changed keys.  Actually, was she ever in a key?

Well, at least she got through it quickly.  Wait, never mind.

Fortunately, here's the perfect antidote:  Whitney Houston's version...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qciWEufZ2xA&feature=related

That's awesome. 

I feel better.