This is the first-known translation of Key’s lyric into a non-English language
Archives: Lyrics
Additional verse for “The Star-Spangled Banner”
This is the most frequently reprinted additional verse to Key’s lyric; it enthusiastically predicts the end of slavery as a result of the U.S. Civil War
Honest Abe of the West
This lyric was used as a presidential campaign song for Abraham Lincoln’s election in 1860. Verse four shows that his candidacy was based in part on the ending of slavery.
Oh Say, Do You Hear?
This anti-slavery lyric is one of the most powerful and visceral texts ever to be created to the Anacreontic melody.
When the Warrior Returns
Written 9 years before “The Star-Spangled Banner,” this song by Francis Scott Key shows that he knew the melody and poetic form well. This song is the model for “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The text here is taken from the earliest source, but was later slightly revised.
President Adams’ Birth Day
1798—Era & Topic: John Adams “Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat…
Adams and Liberty
This hugely popular lyric sparked the popularity of The Anacreontic melody in the United States. It also featured a new, decorated arrangement of the tune.
Song for George Washington’s Birthday
This version is sometimes dated erroneously to 1798
Freedom Triumphant
This sheet music contains the first realization of the melody published in the United States.
For the Commemoration of the Glorious Fourteenth of July
This is the first known published American lyric to the Anacreontic melody and the first-known to be written by a woman.