American National Anthem Question

[sympatico]

Can someone tell me why "God Bless America" is used instead of "Star Spangled Banner" at sports venues like tonight at the hockey game in Philly.
" O Canada " was sung and then "God Bless America". How come "Star Spangled Banner" wasn't used?

 

[Aliceacc]

The only reason I can think of is that it's a much easier song to sing.

Any time I was ever at a sporting event, it was the Star Spangled Banner.

(But God Bless America was the song they always used to close the Irish pub where I once waitressed. )

 

[chisnpeke]

I've always only heard Star Spangled Banner.

 

[salmoneous]

It's a Flyer's thing. They brought in Kate Smith herself to sing it before the final game of the '74 Cup (which they won). They now break it out whenever they need a bit of good luck.

 

[transparant]

It's a Flyer's thing. They brought in Kate Smith herself to sing it before the final game of the '74 Cup (which they won). They now break it out whenever they need a bit of good luck.

Aahhh...good old Kate Smith. I miss those days of Kate Smith and the Broad Street Bullies

 

[sympatico]

Thanks for the answer. But I hope it doesn't bring them too much luck, from a Canadian point of view anyway.