Patriotism or Performance?

When did the singing of the National Anthem and other patriotic songs (e.g., God Bless America, America the Beautiful) become more about personality and performance than the truth of such songs, or the principles, ideals and freedoms they represent?
Suggestion for the producers of our nation's top sporting events: instead of asking mega music stars to sing, use military chorales, or service members to sing such songs before games. They seem to appreciate the lyrics and underlying message of such songs without seeking the spotlight. Bet you'll never see a midshipman, or marine sing such songs then bow and say, "thank you," as if the song is about their performance, or has anything to do with individual personality. That's because the song is about America. Us and we, not me, or I.

How sad that this national obsession with self-infatuation and adulation (e.g., Twitter, FB, Reality TV shows, etc.) has permeated a once hallowed and sacred pre-game tradition. Why are we surprised at this when the majority of the athletes who make big plays at these events go out of their way to call attention to themselves when they celebrate instead of their team?

Bet it won't be long before this self-promoting attitude seeps into worship. Can you imagine people "performing" in worship as they seek the accolades, applause and approval of humans over God? Boy, am I glad worship is still sacred and people are seeking to praise God instead of seeking the praise of their fellow humans. God forbid worship ever becomes more about the choir, praise team, musicians, pastors, or band than the actual praise of God! We're reminded in the Old Testament book of Amos how displeasing insincere/inauthentic worship is to God:

"I hate, I despise your feasts, and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. Even though you offer me your burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them; Take away from me the noise of your songs; to the melody of your harps I will not listen. But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like and ever-flowing stream." (Amos 5:21-22a, 23)