Voice Teacher Analyzes Ashanti’s Sweet National Anthem Performance at the 2024 World Series

Ashanti’s rendition of the U.S. National Anthem at the 2024 World Series was a masterclass in vocal control, artistry, and subtle stylistic choices. As a vocal coach, breaking down this performance highlights not only Ashanti’s technical prowess but also the heartfelt expression she brought to this iconic song.

Opening Moments: Delicate Choices

From the first note, Ashanti delivered an aspirate onset in “Oh, say can you see”, adding a gentle breathiness that immediately set a soft, emotional tone. This choice created a sense of intimacy, pulling the listener into the performance. Her timing aligned with the song’s beat, giving her interpretation a rhythmic precision without rushing.

In the phrase “by the dawn’s early light”, she used a subtle slide between notes, blending transitions seamlessly. Her ability to balance clarity with softness showcased her control over vocal dynamics.

Strategic Dynamics and Emotive Delivery

As Ashanti moved into “whose broad stripes and bright stars”, she employed nuanced changes in vowel shapes. Notably, she softened the consonant “d” in “and”, opting for a more nasal “n” sound that smoothed the transition into the next phrase. This small adjustment added fluidity, making her delivery more melodic.

Her emphasis on “perilous fight” included vocal fry on the word “perilous”, adding texture to the line. Similarly, she extended the vowel in “ramparts”, modifying the traditional pronunciation slightly to match her stylistic preferences.

Powerful Moments: Controlled Crescendos

One of the standout moments came in the line “and the rocket’s red glare”. Ashanti chose to deliver “and the rocket” in one seamless breath, maintaining consistency in tone while building tension. The breath before “red glare” provided a natural pause, enhancing the impact of the phrase.

In “the bombs bursting in air”, her vocal slide on “bursting” added a dramatic flair. She shifted effortlessly between lighter, breathy tones and fuller, more resonant notes, demonstrating her vocal agility.

The Climactic Finish

As Ashanti approached “the land of the free”, she leaned into aspirate stops and a breathy texture. Her use of a slightly heavier tone on “free” added gravity to the line. The final phrase, “and the home of the brave,” concluded with a well-controlled crescendo. Her emphasis on “brave”, paired with an intentional vibrato, gave the performance a triumphant and heartfelt ending.

Why Ashanti’s Performance Stood Out

This performance wasn’t just about vocal technique—it was about storytelling. Ashanti’s choices, from aspirate onsets to vowel shifts, reflected a deep connection to the song. She infused her rendition with warmth, intimacy, and subtle stylistic innovations that made the anthem her own while respecting its iconic nature.

Final Thoughts

Ashanti’s National Anthem at the 2024 World Series is a reminder of her vocal artistry and ability to balance technical precision with emotional depth. As vocal enthusiasts, we can appreciate how her stylistic choices and control over dynamics turned this performance into a standout moment.

To aspiring singers: take inspiration from Ashanti’s ability to adapt a classic piece while maintaining authenticity. Be bold, creative, and true to your unique vocal style. As always, stay vocally you!