When Meat Loaf set the standard for singing the National Anthem

In 1994, rock legend Meat Loaf delivered an unforgettable performance of the U.S. National Anthem at the All-Star Game. Many fans and critics still consider it one of the best renditions ever.

Meat Loaf didn’t try to embellish or stretch out the song. Instead, he kept it straightforward, powerful, and uniquely his own. That night in Pittsburgh, accompanied by the Penn State ROTC Color Guard and wearing a rainbow vest and blinged-out shirt, Meat Loaf captured the spirit of both patriotism and rock ‘n’ roll.

What made this performance so memorable? While some artists add their own twists with falsettos or lengthy runs, Meat Loaf kept it simple, singing in his iconic, bold style. For him, the anthem wasn’t just a song to sing—it was a chance to connect deeply with the audience. As he later shared, the anthem was part of his warmup routine before shows. He knew how to honor its drama and emotion, which resonated with the crowd.

With a career comeback in the ‘90s and hits back on the charts, Meat Loaf was already in the limelight. His anthem performance was a perfect showcase of his powerful voice and stage presence, lasting just 84 seconds but leaving a lasting impression on everyone there. Fans in the stands, young and old alike, were visibly moved, some even brought to tears.

This performance still sparks conversations nearly 30 years later. For many, Meat Loaf’s rendition is the gold standard—no flashy tricks, just raw talent and respect for the song. A fan who attended the game recalled seeing people wiping tears, and many others have shared similar feelings, calling it a true example of how the anthem should be sung.

What do you think? Does Meat Loaf’s 1994 performance top the list of National Anthem renditions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Share if you feel this unforgettable version deserves the spotlight!