Kate Smith Version of ‘God Bless America’ Nixed by Yankees Over Claims of Racism

Kate Smith’s rendition of “God Bless America" has been used by several professional sports teams. But now the version is being banned by the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Flyers. What sparked the controversy? A fan pointed out that Kate Smith also recorded two other songs, which included demeaning and racist lyrics. The Flyers even covered up a statue depicting Smith that stands outside their arena. “God Bless America” was written by the great composer Irving Berlin as a patriotic tribute.