Star Spangled Banner
The Stapletons Lyrics
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What so proudly we hail'd at the twilight's last gleaming
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight
O'er the ramparts we watch'd were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there
O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
The lyrics to The Stapletons' rendition of "Star-Spangled Banner" evoke a sense of patriotism and pride in one's nation. The opening line, "O say can you see, by the dawn's early light," sets the scene of a moment at daybreak, where the beauty of the American flag is illuminated by the first light of day. The imagery created by the mention of "twilight's last gleaming" suggests a sense of fading light, possibly symbolizing the end of a battle or a trying time.
The mention of "broad stripes and bright stars" references the American flag and its iconic design, which is proudly hailed even in the face of adversity. The description of the flag waving gallantly over the ramparts during a perilous fight paints a picture of resilience and determination in the face of challenges. The imagery of "the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air" vividly captures the chaos and violence of battle, contrasting with the image of the flag still standing tall through the night, a symbol of hope and endurance.
The question posed in the lyrics, "O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave," challenges the listener to reflect on the enduring symbol of the flag and what it represents. The mention of "the land of the free and the home of the brave" reinforces the themes of freedom and courage that the flag symbolizes. The anthem serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the past to secure these values and calls on individuals to honor and uphold them in the present.
Overall, The Stapletons' rendition of "Star-Spangled Banner" encapsulates the spirit of resilience, unity, and national pride. The lyrics speak to the enduring symbol of the American flag and its significance as a beacon of hope and freedom. Through vivid imagery and a stirring call to action, the song invites listeners to reflect on the values that the flag represents and to carry on the legacy of bravery and patriotism that it embodies.
Line by Line Meaning
O say can you see, by the dawn's early light
Can you see clearly in the early morning light?
What so proudly we hail'd at the twilight's last gleaming
What we celebrated with pride as the day ended
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight
The flag's bold stripes and shining stars endured the dangerous battle
O'er the ramparts we watch'd were so gallantly streaming?
We watched as the flag waved bravely over the walls
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air
As rockets lit up the sky and bombs exploded around us
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there
Showing that our flag remained standing through the dark night
O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
Can you still see the flag proudly flying?
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
Over the country of the free and the courageous
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC
Written by: David L Brunner, Francis Scott Key
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Will Fly
Our national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner" is unique in so many ways. Most nations will agree that it's one of the most difficult to sing, because of its solemn lows and soaring heights. And most nations would agree that it's the most emotionally powerful (probably due to its solemn lows and soaring heights).
But the thing I love the most about it is what Jimi Hendrix taught us about it...that it's malleable...it's open to interpretation. It can mean different things to different people at different points in history.
And some have taken it to new heights with modern interpretation (Hendrix). Others have held close to its initial interpretation, and performed it in its purest form with soaring grandiose (Whitney) . Some have even missed the mark (Fergie, Rosanne). And some have blown our minds by being reverent...even as comedic singers (Jack Black).
And I love that Chris Stapleton has held close to the original feel of the song while injecting a real history of American blues, gospel, and country, in a way that shows that America is an ever-changing culture constantly filled with new cultures. And I love that our national anthem has that malleabity...I love that our national anthem has the ability to remain constant while also being able to move and adjust.
I love that Chris showed us that America isn't grandiose...it's not bigger than life. America is right down the road. It's your neighbors. It's your kin. It's your community. It's right outside your front door. I love that.
I think that's the most American thing ever.
Bryce Williams
Whoever made the decision to get Chris Stapleton to do the national anthem at the Superbowl needs a raise. A defining moment in history. 👏
Brett
@Fabian Wagner we're proud that you are European as well.
Will Anderson
@Mary Hodgson Mary is obviously an old white lady from Tennessee
PlantMillionsOfTeees
@Fabian WagnerUSA BABY!! USA 🇺🇸… Say Our Name 💪
EV
who else comes back and still listens to this once in a while?
DJ
It’s very hard, 14 years of military service it’s an unbearable combination of both pain and pride. Think for a second listening to this live and then the jets roared over head. After so much sacrifice yet here we are with our country in complete division. I am ashamed but still fly my flag everyday
PHOENIX_GAMING
Every time I listen I get chills it’s just such a touching song to my heart. God bless These United States of America 🇺🇸
Troy Dillon
Yessss! Still brings tears to my eyes also.
Krystle💖
I do
mrprojoe1
i listen to this song all the time cause as a veteran his performance made me tear up