Absolutely right. A country's anthem is the sonic equivalent of its flag. To contort the melody is no different than defacing the flag and, as such, in my view, constitutes an insult.

The worst perpetrators in this are usually anthem 'singers' at sports events.

Agree with what you said about Bennett Jc, he truly knows what to do with what he has.

The thing is, he's turned into the most charismatic performer I think I've seen in many years.

He seems to be more "magical" as he gets older.

I saw Dean Martin's last performance (umm...unfortunately on youtube only!) and that was sad, compared to the singer he once was.
In his prime, he was extraordinary - I wouldn't dare mention Manilow in the same sentence as DM.

I think Manilow is a much better songwriter than performer...

err....back OT now - sorry.