Blake Snow

writer-for-hire, content guy, bestselling author

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Top 5 biggest, brassiest, and march-inducing national anthems of all time

For their patriotism, big sound, and classically-inspired writing, I adore national anthems. Every time I hear a good one, I feel like saluting someone. Every time I hear one of these, I feel like dying for a cause. They are the best-sounding national anthems ever. Does your favorite make the list?

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHuvnGNKcnc[/youtube]
5. France. As a long-time player of video games, this intro will forever remind me of Glass Joe, a weakly boxer from Paris. On its own merits, however, the piece is very diplomatic. And like the U.S. national anthem, it’s both quiet and loud, which I love.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soU1h6n__vQ[/youtube]
4. Brazil. Brazilians are known for their creative and playful demeanor. Their national anthem is no different. It’s bouncy, triumphant, and features the second best ending on my list. It’s also really fun to sing along to, for any out there fluent in Portuguese.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwVSTXn5ghw[/youtube]
3. Italy. The first part of this song seems like it was written by one of Mussolini’s cavemen. I like it, but it reminds me of rampant fascism for some reason. Nevertheless, the main theme is about the most passionate and waltz-like anthem you’ll find. A real keeper, if you ask me.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNM23IFYCG8[/youtube]
2. United States. The American in me wants to put this at number one. The musician in me knows it’s number two. It would be easy to argue this is popular solely for being heavily publicized throughout the world. But musically, it’s thundering, liberating and makes you want to stand. Plus it features the best finish of the lot.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wCDAOYaydk[/youtube]
1. Russia. From the first very first note, this song implores: “I demand your attention.” And then it swells, soars, and crescendos into a fixed and steady state of patriotism, making it the greatest national anthem of all time. Anyone know where I put my Ushanka?