Article Contributed by Champagne House Media
Published on 2026-11-05
GRAMMY-winning singer, keyboardist, and composer Cory Henry brought his own arrangement of “The Star-Spangled Banner” to Crypto.com Arena on November 2, performing the national anthem before the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Miami Heat.
Watch Cory Henry's full national anthem performance:
“Basketball has always been a big part of my life. I’ve been a fan for as long as I can remember, so to have an opportunity to bring my love for music and basketball together like this is really special. It’s honestly a dream come true,” said Henry. “Music and basketball both have a way of bringing people together. That’s something I’ve always loved about both, and getting to be part of that intersection is special.”
For his interpretation, Henry drew on Marvin Gaye’s influence, approaching the familiar melody with soulful phrasing and a different harmonic framework while preserving the song’s core.
“There have been so many renditions of the anthem. I wanted to find my own,” Henry explained. “I’m so influenced by Marvin Gaye, so I leaned into his creative process a little. I wanted to make a soulful version of the song with a different harmonic approach while respecting the core of the song.”
The appearance follows the release of Henry’s latest album, Devotion, available now through Apostle Music Group. Produced by Henry and recorded in Los Angeles and New York, the 10-track project brings gospel, soul, jazz, and funk into a deeply personal collection about faith, perseverance, and hope. Guest appearances include Stevie Wonder, Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, and Jonathan McReynolds, alongside The Apostle Voices, The Fellowship Collective, and The Brent Fischer Orchestra. Henry describes the sound as “gospel soul,” pairing his signature keyboard work with expansive vocal harmonies and orchestral arrangements.
For more information on Cory Henry, please visit coryhenry.com.
Cory Henry Presents: The Gospel Brunch Experience
Sunday, November 15, 2026
Blue Note Los Angeles – Los Angeles, CA
Showtimes: 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Tickets & Information
Additional tour dates to be announced.
