No ego. No self-indulgent decoration. No nonsense.
Meat Loaf’s performance of the National Anthem at the 1994 All-Star Game is possibly the best version ever.
There are many classic versions of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” For me, Chris Stapleton’s emotional performance at Super Bowl 2023 stands out as one of the best.
But it’s tough to argue against those who think that legendary Meat Loaf, with his famous take on the national anthem at the 1994 All-Star Game in Pittsburgh, is truly number one.
Joined by the Penn State ROTC Color Guard, Meat Loaf’s show in 1994 was no accident.
Wearing a rainbow brocade vest
The rock ’n’ roll star, who had a big comeback in the ’90s, was hotter than a microwave that year. Thanks to an album boosted by MTV, he was back in front of everyone and ready to show off his talent. Born Martin Lee Aday, he was in his mid-40s when he sang out the anthem and it showed how much he enjoyed every second on stage.
Thinking about his feelings before singing this traditional song, Meat Loaf said, “It’s one of my warmup songs before I go on stage. Then I go out and sing stuff that doesn’t sound like it.” He added, “It’s a very dramatic song and I’m going to sing it slow and dramatic.” Wearing a rainbow brocade vest with a flashy shirt and black pants made him captivate everyone with his strong voice.
However, his version only lasted 84 seconds—not even close to Marvin Gaye’s record of 2 minutes and 21 seconds at an NBA All-Star game.
”No falsetto screeching”
When he walked onto the field many compared him to John Kruk from Philadelphia Phillies. But Meat Loaf called himself “an American League kind of guy,” saying that he was “more conservative than anyone you’ve ever met.”
There’s no doubt—baseball fans and rock ‘n’ roll lovers were lucky when Meat Loaf sang that day. “I believe in Santa Claus Christmas The Easter Bunny and designated hitter,” he joked reminding us all how joy often goes hand-in-hand with nostalgia.
As we remember this amazing performance it’s clear that Meat Loaf’s spirit brought something special to this timeless tradition leaving an unforgettable mark on fans everywhere.
One viewer commented on this clip: “I’ve been shouting for almost thirty years about how perfect this performance was… so nice people are finally giving it recognition.” Another added: “No endless runs… no falsetto screeching… that’s how it’s done.”
“I saw people wiping tears from their eyes even kids were moved! It was stunningly awesome!” another user wrote.
Meat Loaf made our world better just by being here! Share this article if you think this version is truly number one!
