Soaring high notes on star-spangled day
SOME of the world’s biggest names in music turned the inauguration ceremony into a star-spangled showstopper.
Lady Gaga sang a soaring rendition of the national anthem before Joe Biden was sworn in.
She was accompanied by the United States Marine Band and wore a huge golden dove of peace on her couture gown.
Jennifer Lopez sang a medley of This Land Is Your Land and America The Beautiful, as well as saying in Spanish part of the Pledge of Allegiance: “One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
The star wore an all-white Chanel outfit for the occasion.
And Garth Brooks sang a stunning version of Amazing Grace without accompaniment. The Republicansupporting country singer had said: “I’m so tired of being divided.”
After the proceedings, a galaxy of stars turned out to perform for Mr Biden’s post inauguration party.
Singer Katy Perry topped the bill during a primetime TV special called Celebrating America.
It featured performances at iconic locations across the US from artists including Jon Bon Jovi, John Legend, Demi Lovato, Foo Fighters, Bruce Springsteen, Tim McGraw, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ant Clemons and Justin Timberlake.
The programme was billed as a cultural celebration of American heroes who had helped the country through the Covid crisis, featuring frontline workers, health care professionals, teachers and ordinary citizens who did something special.
Mr Biden and Vice-President Harris also gave speeches.
The Presidential Inaugural Committee said it demonstrated the American people’s “resilience, heroism, and unified commitment to coming together as a nation to heal and rebuild”.
The two-hour special was shown on major networks and streamed live on other media platforms.
It was hosted by Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks while actresses Eva Longoria and Kerry Washington introduced segments of the show.