‘Black national anthem’ a Hit in Denver

Mayor John Hickenlooper’s annual State of the City address was spiced up when Rene Marie there to perform the national anthem. Instead performed the song “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” which is also known as the “black national anthem.”

 Why should Marie sing the National Anthem? What has America done for her? In fact Obamas preacher said it himself “God Damn America.” I can see the unity happening right now.  The mayor Hickenlooper said, “You know I was more confused and I think I was more – what I was, was disappointed and confused and that’s why I wanted to talk to her.” Confused is probably the right word…mpress

At the start of the event Tuesday morning, City Council President Michael Hancock introduced singer Rene Marie to perform the national anthem.

Instead, she performed the song “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” which is also known as the “black national anthem.”

When she finished, the audience responded with mild applause. The national anthem was never performed.

Marie told 9NEWS she kept her plans to switch songs quiet until the very last moment. She says only she, her husband and a friend knew she was going to sing something other than the “Star-Spangled Banner.”

She says she wanted to express her love of her country by mixing the lyrics of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” with the melody of the “Star-Spangled Banner.” source

miamipress.net