Marvin Gaye Singing National Anthem at The NBA All Star Game

Marvin Gaye appeared at The Forum in Los Angeles today (February 13, 1983), where he delivered his legendary version of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

The tune inspired Julius “Dr. J” Erving to take home MVP honors. After the game, Julius fawned over Marvin’s performance.

“Listing to Marvin Gaye thing was almost exciting as the game,” said Julius “Dr. J” Erving, who was the MVP of the game. “It will probably be some flack, but I think everybody here today enjoyed what he did.”

Incredibly, there was backlash.

The American Legion’s 3 million members attempted to have Congress make it illegal for singers to jazz up their renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”