The Songs of Steeplechase: A History of National Anthem Performances
From tear-jerking vocals to unexpected guitar riffs, a new performer takes the mic each year to kick off the Steeplechase of Charleston with our country’s national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.
Little do most Americans know that Charleston, S.C., has deep ties to our nation’s celebratory traditions, making it the perfect backdrop for patriotic performances.
In honor of the July Fourth holiday, let’s take a look back at some of the artists who left their patriotic mark at this beloved event that celebrates the tradition of horse racing.
“The opening ceremonies and national anthem performance set the perfect tone for what makes Steeplechase of Charleston so special,” says Chris Zoeller, Executive Director. “We’re always looking for ways to wow our audience with powerful performances that honor tradition while embracing innovation and excellence.”
2020: Quiana Parler and Charlton Singleton (of Ranky Tanky)
It was a Steeplechase like no other: masks on faces, distance between attendees, and uncertainty hanging thick in the air. But when 2x Grammy award-winning artists, Quiana Parler and Charlton Singleton of Ranky Tanky, graced the event with their virtual performance, they brought more than just music; they brought comfort and community.
The duo delivered a soulful, jazz rendition of the anthem, recorded against the stunning backdrop of downtown Charleston with a historic church steeple rising behind them. With each note they sang, they filled the virtual performance with warmth, drawing admiration and appreciation from viewers at home.
Singleton expressed that “it was gratifying to be a part of it at a time where we were all going through [a] pandemic. I felt very honored”. Parler recounted that, “Singing the National Anthem at Steeplechase of Charleston during COVID was incredibly emotional for me. In the middle of so much uncertainty and isolation, that moment felt like a breath of hope – a way to honor our Southern roots, its resilience, and remind us that music can still bring us together, even when we were apart”.
Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, 2020 marked the revitalization of Steeplechase’s entertainment efforts. This bold performance set the tone for an elevated event experience, one where heritage meets high-caliber entertainment.
2021: Faith Schueler
In 2021, the Steeplechase of Charleston paid tribute to local artists with a performance from Charleston native and rising country star Faith Schueler. Hailing from Summerville, S.C., Faith has been making waves in the country music scene with her authentic Southern sound and heartfelt lyrics.
Her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” was rich with sincerity, her voice steady and strong as she belted it out over the crowd. For many attendees, it was a poignant reminder of the immense talent that resides right here in the Lowcountry. It wasn’t just a performance, it was a homecoming wrapped in red, white, and blue.
2022: Dimitri Pittas (Holy City Arts & Lyric Opera)
In 2022, the national anthem soared to operatic heights. Dimitri Pittas of Holy City Arts and Lyric Opera (HALO) stood tall in the middle of the track, singing loud enough for those sitting in the nosebleeds of the grandstands to hear.
Dimitri Pittas, founder of HALO, has graced the stages of many venues. From North America to Europe, he has taken on many roles such as Don Jose in Carmen and Lieutenant Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly.
Pittas’ voice brought a grandeur and worldly elegance to the tracks of Stono Ferry. Attendees recalled the goosebumps and pride they felt during his performance, a testament to the power and presence of his voice.
2023: Eddie Bush
In a bold break from tradition, 2023’s national anthem performance struck a different chord, literally. Charleston’s own Eddie Bush took to the track in a black leather jacket and played a purple electric guitar, delivering a rock rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner that had the crowd on their feet.
Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Join us Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Stono Ferry Racetrack to discover what spectacular performance will kick off our 2025 event. From the opening notes of the national anthem to the thundering hooves on the track, every moment promises to be unforgettable. Get your tickets and be part of the tradition!