Like so many famous songs of yore, "The Star-Spangled Banner" started as a poem, called “The Defence of Fort McHenry.” It was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814 during the War of 1812.

George Armistead to make a flag for Fort McHenry. This flag, which measured 30 feet by 42 feet, was the original ...

As such, it is appropriate to consider what the transition means for Black America, and how its musicians have interpreted the “Star Spangled Banner” during times of stress in our racial politics.

On Sunday, Toronto Raptors fans joined them, booing the traditional playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the tune switched to "O Canada" prior to a game against the Los Angeles Clippers.