The Milwaukee Bucks invited the rapper to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner”
The Milwaukee Bucks tapped Flavor Flav to perform the national anthem ahead of the team’s home game against the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday. During his performance, the Public Enemy cofounder appeared center court, took a deep breath, and delivered the a cappella song — which by many people’s standards is not the easiest to sing.
His gloriously unique rendition — complete with his drawn-out dramatic notes, which were met by fans cheering him on — will certainly remain memorable. He also came correct with the lyrics, which has been an area where some artists have floundered when in the national anthem spotlight. Also, absent of any backing rhythm, he kept his pace as he snapped along. And while he appeared to take this song duty seriously, it was just as clear he thoroughly enjoyed himself, flashing smiles as he sang. His performance culminated in a thrice repeated “of the brave” triumphant finale. Sure he was pitchy, but at the end of the day, it looks like he had a good time and he performed it filled with joy — and really, who among us can’t use a little joy these days?
“The anthem was a long time bucket list item,,, that was fun!,” Flavor Flav posted on X, formerly Twitter, following his performance. “I can’t live my life worried about what people might say about me. I won’t let that stop me from trying new things and doing things I wanna do. Some people might not like that. But a sure failure is if you stop trying.”