It was a big day for President Barack Obama as he was sworn in for his second term, but as is often the case with our 44th POTUS, his undeniable cool factor was enhanced by the string of celebrities that showed up for the festivities.
Among the performers for the day’s events, James Taylor graced the stage to sing “America the Beautiful,” followed by one of the many powerhouse female vocalists the Inauguration had to offer, our first “American Idol” darling herself, Kelly Clarkson. Apart from her amazing rendition of “My Country Tis of Thee,” Clarkson’s performance also provided the nation with one of the funniest moments of the day when a picture of former President Bill Clinton photobombing the singer went viral. Clinton is no stranger to Internet fame following his presidency (as evidenced by a very popular meme), but I’m not quite sure these are the headlines he had in mind for what appeared to be a completely unintentional Kodak moment. Regardless, Bill, we thank you for this priceless piece of history.
Longtime Obama supporters Katy Perry, Eva Longoria, and Beyonce and husband Jay-Z were also present for the ceremony, with Queen B taking the stage to sing the national anthem. Her flawless vocals roused the crowd (and suspicions it may have been lip-synched), but not to be outdone, it is her former “Dreamgirls” costar and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson’s performance later that evening at the inaugural ball that will stick in most people’s minds. The star performed Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” (which, as we all know, is one of Obama’s favorite tunes) as the President and First Lady danced the night away, the latter earning style raves for her stunning red gown by designer Jason Wu.
Rounding out the ball’s musical guests were Alicia Keys and Stevie Wonder, with Keys even altering her hit song “Girl on Fire” to “Obama’s on fire.” With four more years in office to make a difference, there’s no denying that! Hopefully the momentum and excitement of the last few days keeps going, and also, here’s hoping for Keys to release “Obama’s on Fire” as a single. It’s pretty darn catchy.