Gospel version of US national anthem receives standing ovation at Democratic convention

The Soul Children of Chicago choir performed a rousing gospel rendition of the US national anthem at the Democratic national convention in Chicago.

The uplifting display was greeted with a standing ovation from gathered delegates. The performance kicked off day one of the convention before speeches from Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton

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[riftster]

I haven't ever actually felt the anthem.. until now. That was *beautiful*

[marilyn]

Canadian...even I choked up.
I believe you America. Praying for you.

[christianyohannes]

I’m a staffer for someone who was attending that day. I heard these kids in their rehearsal and my neck snapped backstage

[arnoldindustries]

Americans who are inheriting this country singing the anthem with as much patriotism as anyone ever has.

[ROLCY]

Lump in my throat and tears in my eyes over this group's performance. Well done Soul Children of Chicago choir.

[pjwelsh-huggins]

high school choir director here: LOVED their energy. LOVED that arrangement. LOVED those vocals. THANK YOU to their director and to the families of each child for nurturing their musicianship and their spirits. THANK YOU to the DNC for choosing to lift up our nation in unity with these kids' voices.

[piccolo]

I am Spanish and this made me feel proud of America! An America of many colours in which everybody's dream are welcome

[sweetpeaon]

I cried the first time I saw this!! Through everything that's happened, WE ARE STILL HERE. 💙💙💙

[AutisticEthics]

Gospel, jazz, blues, ragtime - just like one note different and suddenly these chords are ELECTRIC. Music is so emotional. It says so much. We are so lucky in this country.

[stacym]

I don't remember ever having to choke back tears after the National Anthem. But these beautiful young people did it!

[BdCgWgLover]

I'm not crying…with the Olympics just ending and now this convention. My faith in this country has been restored. I Pray we get it right in November.

[wryter]

I'm an older American and I say this is how we ALL sing the National Anthem from Now ON!

[JillKnapp]

This arrangement is absolutely brilliant. I love the journey it takes you on. And the discordant chord on the word "free" (as if to say "free?”) is a powerful kick in the guts. Bravissimo!

[uniquelyunique]

As a Chicagoan words cannot describe how incredible this is & their ability to sing the National Anthem unlike no other (kid's style of course). They started out professionally then proceeded to take us all to church. Listen carefully to wave & brave... that came from their soul.

[ninaanetteassarsson]

Im Swedish living in Spain... I just say WOW ! Goosebumps !

[michaeladams]

Made me cry. My family fought in every war since revolution but we did fight on the wrong side in civil war. People forget the first person do give his life for our freedom was a black man in Boston, Crispus Atticks

[aveg]

I'm not American, but this rendition brought tears to my eyes 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[adrianthomas]

Goosebumps. It’s why I became a citizen. Believe in DEMOCRACY

[jbb]

This isn’t a gospel version; it’s just us doing our thang… ❤

[Doug]

From a Brit, that's how I always imagine it should be sung.
Powerful.