Flavor Flav decided to break free from the norm in a performance that left many both puzzled and intrigued.

While the Milwaukee Bucks were scouting performers for their National Anthem, nobody expected the flamboyant hip-hop legend to step up to the mic. Yet, there he was, in a No. 59 Milwaukee Bucks jersey, a white hoodie, and his signature blinged-out medallion, ready to sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Fiserv Forum.

Flavor Flav’s rendition of the National Anthem wasn’t what anyone expected, but it was undoubtedly unforgettable. As he belted out the lyrics, some Milwaukee Bucks players struggled to suppress their laughter. However, when he reached the high note on “the rockets red glare” and “the land of the free,” the crowd rewarded him with applause, and some even gave him a standing ovation.

Amidst the bewildered looks and mixed reactions on social media, Flavor Flav explained his motivation. He revealed that he had family members who served in the military, including his dad, who fought in World War II. For him, singing the National Anthem was a way to honor their sacrifice and celebrate the progress his community had made.

In the aftermath of his unique performance, Flavor Flav took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to respond to the critics. He emphasized that the anthem was a “long time bucket list item” and that he had “fun” doing it.

He also offered some wisdom for those who dared to step out of their comfort zones: “I can’t live my life worried about what people might say about me. I won’t let that stop me from trying new things and doing things I wanna do. Some people might not like that. But a sure failure is you stop trying.”

Related Story: BLACK EXCELLENCE REIGNS: Jada Davis Becomes The First Black Miss Milwaukee

Flavor Flav’s performance showcased a different side of him—one that many might not have known. Before his hip-hop days, he was a classically trained musician who sang in the youth choir at his church and mastered several instruments, including the piano, drums, and guitar. His diverse musical background proves that true artists are not confined by genres.

Flavor Flav’s National Anthem rendition may not have pleased everyone, but it undeniably left an impression. In a world where we often play it safe, his fearless approach to the performance serves as a reminder that it’s okay to step out of our comfort zones and pay tribute to what truly matters. As Flavor Flav said, “A sure failure is if you stop trying.”