By BLUEGRASS JOHNSON
Rural Route Music 

BITTER SWEET, Ky. — As I sat watching the women’s USA soccer team play during the World Cup finals, I was inspired to write this column.

Now before you turn to the diesel tractor sales page, hear me out. During the playing of our beloved Star Spangled Banner, I realized; first, I was missing the NASCAR race; and second, what great versions we have had of our National Anthem.

And for all you soccer enthusiasts, I was just kidding about the NASCAR race, sort of. It was in a rain delay.

For those interested in a little history about our nation’s greatest song, it was written by a fellow named Francis Scott Key, at least he wrote the words as a poem, while watching Fort McHenry stave off an attack by the British during the War of 1812.

The music came from, of all people, a British composer – but that’s another story, altogether.

My point is, this song can make grown men cry and all Americans swell with pride whether it’s played at the World Cup, Daytona Motor Speedway or at a local high school football game.

After doing a little checking on the World Wide Web, I have come up with my list of the five best Star Spangled Banner renditions, country style.

First, I’ll mention Carrie Underwood’s National Anthem performed at Super Bowl XLIV. While she didn’t do any fancy tricks, as some performers have tried, that fantastic voice that is unmistakably Underwood’s was enough to make it great, memorable and on my list.

Staying in that football vein, Lady Antebellum’s version during the 2010 Sugar Bowl gave me chills with their wonderful harmonies.

Next I would have to say is Kelly Clarkson’s 2012 Super Bowl version, complete with a drum corps and a children’s choir. No list of country superstars would be complete without Garth Brooks and his version of the song at the 1993 Super Bowl. It was especially memorable because actress Marlee Martin performed the song in sign language alongside Brooks.

As good as the rest are, my favorite rendition of the nation’s favorite song has to be from Rascal Flats. These guys have performed it to start numerous events, the latest coming at Game 3 of this year’s NBA finals. When they kick in the three-part harmonies, man it gets me every time.

There are many other great renditions of this wonderful song both from country artists and otherwise. No matter who sings it or when, we should all jump to our feet and cover our hearts and show respect to this great nation and the men and women who defend it on a daily basis.

To you Francis Scott Key, I give you a big ole A+ and God Bless America.

Bluegrass Johnson comes from a long line of country music performers and enjoys a passion for the rhythm and melody. From the hills of Kentucky, he will offer his opinions on a variety of new country music each week. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.