> hated that version of O Canada

Add me to the list!

I think this style of free-form interpretation of the national anthem (both American and Canadian) began years ago when Whitney Houston blew the lid off a stadium with her rendition of 'The Star Spangled Banner'.

On that day Whitney nailed it, but since then a never ending stream of wannabees have been assassinating our most patriotic songs.

To me, last night's version sounded like something from an American Idol audition. Worst of all, Nikki ventured so far off the tempo and melody that she denied tens of thousands of proud Canadians the opportunity to participate in the singing of their own national anthem! :-(