We’ve been treated to some truly amazing performances of the National Anthem at sporting events lately, with Chris Botti’s trumpet rendition really setting the Internet on fire for days after it was over. But when it comes to one of the best in the business in terms of consistently delivering the most awesome “Star-Spangled Banner” performances, it’s hard to find someone better than Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready. The guitarist has shredded his righteous ax for the crowds at a number of Seattle Mariners baseball games (like this one, this one and this one, among others) and even one on their fiercest rival’s turf. (My favorite, for the record, was the time that he was joined by Steve Gleason, because chills, man.)
McCready was back at it last night before FC Dallas and the Seattle Sounders faced off in the MLS Cup conference semifinals, and I like to think that it was his guitar that willed the Sounders to a win. Or not, because I honestly don’t understand playoff soccer.
(H/T to Deadspin)
