Ben Gallaher Unplugs For The National Anthem
(QHMG) Ben Gallaher has released his powerful acoustic rendition of the nation's official hymn, "National Anthem (The Star-Spangled Banner)." Gallaher's soul-stirring, one-of-a-kind guitar arrangement drops on the cusp of Memorial Day Weekend, paying tribute to military personnel who have served in the armed forces. Gallaher's own maternal grandfather served bravely in the United States Army during World War II.
Gallaher's reimagined version of the country's national song sets aside Francis Scott Key's famous lyric to shine a greater spotlight on the simple, stirring beauty of the anthem's melody, originally composed by John Stafford Smith.
"As we moved closer to both Memorial Day and also the America 250 celebration, I realized that I'd never heard an acoustic instrumental guitar rendition of the National Anthem," said Gallaher. "It quickly inspired me to record an original version to honor the greatest country we call home - and to all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom."
Arranged by Gallaher for solo acoustic guitar, and produced by Patrick Thrasher, "National Anthem (The Star-Spangled Banner)" begins with understated fingerpicking then builds to a rousing crescendo where the iconic melody notes march atop strong chords amplified by Gallaher's vigorous strumming.
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