Five-part harmony rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' by a capella group Pentatonix sends shivers down spines.
Pentatonix, the triple Grammy-winning, multi-platinum-selling ensemble, made history at Super Bowl LIX in 2025 as they performed the US national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." The vocal group, consisting of Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kirstin Maldonado, Matt Sallee, and Kevin Olusola, is known for their pop-style arrangements of classic songs, tight harmonies, scat singing, and vocal percussion.
Kevin Olusola, a cellist, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and beatboxer, also known as 'Kevin O,' showcased his unique talents during the performance. His beatboxing and playing Bach's Cello Suite No.1 simultaneously was a testament to his extraordinary skills.
The group used a five-part harmony for their rendition, creating a sound that was both powerful and memorable. Their performance featured riffs and production to create their iconic sound, making it a standout moment of the event.
Pentatonix's performance came after a series of esteemed artists who have sung the national anthem at the Super Bowl. Notable names include Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Aaron Neville, Diana Ross, Barry Manilow, Garth Brooks, Jewel, Beyonce Knowles, Jennifer Hudson, Lady Gaga, Chris Stapleton, Christina Aguilera, Neil Diamond, and Jon Batiste.
Whitney Houston's 1991 performance is one of the most acclaimed renditions ever, while Aretha Franklin and Aaron Neville have also sung the anthem at past Super Bowls. Recent performers have included Jennifer Hudson (2009), Lady Gaga (2016), and Chris Stapleton (2023), all delivering memorable versions.
In a significant first for the Super Bowl, Sheryl Lee Ralph performed "Lift Every Voice and Sing," the Black national anthem, before the game in 2025.
In February 2025, Jon Batiste will perform the national anthem live on the field at the Superbowl, continuing the tradition of a new artist standing up to perform the anthem every year.
Pentatonix had previously performed the national anthem at an NFL game on Christmas Day, 2024. The game was between the Baltimore Ravens and the Houston Texans.
A video of Kevin Olusola beatboxing and playing Bach's Cello Suite No.1 is available for viewing, offering a glimpse into his remarkable skills. A link to watch the Pentatonix performance of the national anthem is provided for those who missed it.
[Link to watch Pentatonix's performance of the national anthem]
[Link to watch Kevin Olusola beatboxing and playing Bach's Cello Suite No.1]
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