We're bringing out our regular Friday music feature a few days early this week to celebrate the 4th of July. We'll be back on our regular schedule from Friday the 13th.

“At the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival, as [Louis] Armstrong concluded a long set with the National Anthem, [James] Baldwin turned to me and said: ‘You know, that’s the first time I’ve liked that song.’” — Dan Morgenstern, Louis Armstrong: An American Genius

There is only one version of “The Spangled Banner” that I have ever enjoyed. You will hear it below (hint: I am in Seattle).

Wynton Marsalis played it before one of the Superdome Superbowls, but I could not find it online.

The real national anthem of New Orleans is, of course, “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Like our other national anthem, it is overplayed and rarely inspiring. There are times, at Jazz Fest, when I will hear that song so many times that I begin to hate it.

I have felt the same about that other anthem, the one played before every ballgame. I would vote for a moratorium on the playing of that anthem, at least until the death toll slows down.

I will return to the topic of “Saints” next week. For now, behind the cut, is Mr. Hendrix and some pictures that still give me chills. Note the good messages at the end.