I really like the two examples of the Star Spangled Banner that you used here. The Hendrix example and the controversy that surrounded it got me thinking about other instances in which, through the singing of the national anthem, artists have become vilified. The first example that comes to mind is that of Roseanne Barr and her atrocious rendition in 1990, not too much earlier than the Whitney Houston version which was so highly praised. By having celebrities, not necessarily professional singers, sing the anthem (poorly), does this not reflect poorly on our nation? Or is the idea that music is for everyone, even those who can't carry a tune in a bucket, more important than national pride?

The opening sets a nice tone--the way it smoothly ramps up. Nice intro to the Brown interview. The next segments work well. There is some shift in the narrator's voice, but not a problem. The Star Spangled Banner segments are well done, and the shift to Hendrix is a nice jump. These segments are well put together--good sounds, nice cuts. At some point I wonder if you want to touch more on the sublime elements of the Hendrix--what does take it to the next level? The Houston segment is also well done. The context discussion of the Houston performance is good--how does it connect with the Hendrix context? Is it the performance or the timing and situation? Or both, I guess. I think you have an opportunity to tie together a few of the threads a bit more, but this is great. Nice work.