On September 27, 1947, Marvin Lee Aday was born in Dallas, Texas. He became known as Meat Loaf.

His moniker on the high school football team served as the basis for his stage name. The moniker has remained with him throughout the years as Meat Loaf rose to prominence for his dramatic live performances and strong, versatile voice.

Fans and casual listeners alike have long been amazed by Meat Loaf’s incredible voice. Meat Loaf allegedly struck a note so high during one of his recording sessions that the studio’s fuse exploded. You might start to question if there is any truth to that rumor after seeing him perform.

The Grammy Award-winning performer gave a moving rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” on July 13, 1994, at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during the 65th MLB All-Star Game.

While performing with Penn State’s ROTC Color Guard, Meat Loaf elevated the well-known song to a new level. By defying all assumptions and conventions, he demonstrated the proper way to sing The Star-Spangled Banner.

Not a dry eye could be seen in the house. With their hands covering their hearts and facing the flag, everyone stood and joined in the song. Fans, including children, were wiping tears off their faces in every area of the stadium.

Meat Loaf’s pianist provided a magnificent, brilliant, hymn-like, and yet quiet piano accompaniment that helped to set the mood for this historic performance. This performance of the ages was the result of all these factors coming together.

For those who were present and those of us who watched it live on television, it was an unforgettable moment as Meat Loaf won the respect and affection of an appreciative nation and won many new admirers.

You are about to witness one of the best renditions of our wonderful national anthem by a man or woman. It seems as though Meat Loaf was meant for this grand tune.