Help me out here”: Carrie Underwood’s inauguration performance hit an awkward note
January 21, 2025 – As Donald Trump officially took the oath of office on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital witnessed a memorable celebration with several top music artists taking center stage. Country stars, rock icons, and rap legends gathered to mark the momentous event, including Carrie Underwood, Kid Rock, and Nelly, all ready to add their voice and style to the inauguration festivities.
Carrie Underwood, a well-known country music superstar, performed “America the Beautiful” during the swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda. Standing before a crowd of dignitaries and onlookers, Underwood expressed her honor in being part of the historic occasion. “I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event,” she said in a statement to Yahoo Entertainment. “I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.” Underwood’s performance was set to include the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club, but the singer performed a powerful a cappella rendition, moving everyone present.
As the ceremony unfolded, Christopher Macchio, known for his remarkable vocals with the New York Tenors, took the stage. He performed “O, America!” at the beginning of the event, a piece that set the tone for the day. Macchio, who had previously captivated audiences with a performance of Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” at a Trump rally, expressed his excitement about the opportunity to perform at such a historic event. “I’m overjoyed to be performing at the inauguration,” Macchio told CBS New York. He was also honored to close the ceremony with the national anthem, delivering a moving rendition that had the crowd in awe.
Veteran country singer Lee Greenwood, who is no stranger to performing for U.S. presidents, also graced the stage. Known for his patriotic anthem “God Bless the U.S.A.,” Greenwood serenaded the crowd at the Make America Great Again Victory Rally held just days earlier. At 82 years old, he remains a favorite for such occasions, having sung for past presidents like Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush. “I don’t think it ever gets old particularly when you’re singing for the president of the United States again,” Greenwood shared with WWD. His performance, paired with a full orchestra, added a majestic touch to the day’s celebrations, contrasting with his usual performances with a country quintet.
As the inauguration festivities continued, Kid Rock joined the scene on January 19 at the MAGA Victory Rally in Washington, D.C. Prior to kicking off his seven-stop arena tour, Kid Rock made a brief stop in the nation’s capital to show his support for the newly elected president. The rocker revealed on Instagram that he had received a phone call from Trump, marking yet another connection between the musician and the president-elect. Known for his outspoken support of Trump and his MAGA platform, Kid Rock’s performance at the rally served as a powerful moment in the run-up to the official swearing-in ceremony.
Nelly, a legendary rapper known for his chart-topping hits, was also slated to perform during the inauguration weekend. With his unique blend of hip-hop and country influences, Nelly’s participation adds an exciting dynamic to the overall musical lineup. His high-energy performances and broad fanbase make him a perfect fit for such a significant event, representing a diverse cross-section of American music culture.
Throughout the weekend, these iconic artists delivered electrifying performances that not only honored the inauguration but also celebrated the diverse music scene that continues to shape American culture. With genres ranging from country to rock to rap, the performances offered a reflection of the unity and diversity the nation holds dear. The star-studded lineup brought energy and enthusiasm to the weekend, ensuring that Trump’s 2025 inauguration was marked with music and moments to remember for years to come.
As Trump now embarks on his second term as president, the inaugural performances provided a fitting backdrop to the events. For fans of these artists and for those who tuned in to witness the ceremonies, it was a weekend to remember, with music playing a key role in celebrating the new chapter of U.S. politics. From the powerful vocals of Underwood to the rock spirit of Kid Rock, and the star power of Nelly, the 2025 inauguration weekend will surely be remembered for the incredible talent that graced the stage.
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