LEXINGTON Legends

"Michael Preacely, from left, leading members the group Virtuosity, Kay’mon Murrah, Marquita Richardson and Michelle Taylor perform a combined version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” June 26, 2021, at Lexington Legends Ballpark. The song was performed in conjunction with the launch of the “I Was Here” project installation at the ballpark."

This is the speech the announcer gave to the audience that day:

In 1918 Babe Ruth's last postseason game for the Boston Red Sox coincided with the Star-Spangled Banner’s first appearance in sports. America had entered WW1 in 1917 and over 100,000 American soldiers had died.  At home, the public mood was anxious. The government began drafting major leaguers for military service and ordered baseball to end the regular season by Labor Day. 

In that World Series, the anthem was first played by the Cubs at the 7th inning stretch lifting the spirit to unite the country against a common enemy. When the Series continued at Fenway Park, “The Star-Spangled Banner" moved to the pregame where the song was coupled with the introduction of wounded soldiers.

Like the Chicago fans, the Boston crowd erupted for the pregame anthem and the brave heroes.  Congress did not officially adopt the "The Star-Spangled Banner" until 1931. But by that time, it was already a baseball tradition steeped in wartime patriotism.

For over a century, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” has held a powerful place in American history. The song is a prayer of thanksgiving for faithfulness and freedom, with imagery evoking the biblical Exodus. It is featured in many Christian hymnals and sung in churches across North America. The hymn is known as the Black National Anthem, and today for the first time in America, the Lexington Legends are proud to present a combined anthem led by Dr. Michael Preacely followed by the “The Star-Spangled Banner”. Please stand as we honor America.