From Aretha to Gaga: 7 of the Greatest Music Moments at U.S. Presidential Inaugurations

Donald Trump is scheduled to be sworn into office on January 20 and some people are looking forward to seeing the performances at his inauguration. Music performances at U.S. presidential inaugurations date back to Inauguration Day 1789, when George Washington was sworn in as the first president. Musicians performed celebratory marches with Philip Phile composing the "The President's March." Since 1789, the performances have only gotten bigger, and more diverse. Relive some moments in history with 7 of the most iconic U.S. presidential inauguration performances. 

1. Marian Anderson 

At Eisenhower’s second inauguration ceremony in 1961, Marian Anderson was the first African American to perform a stunning rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner." The American contralto was previously denied a performance at Washington D.C.'s Constitution Hall because of her race in 1939. She is one of the most celebrated and influential singers of the 20th century and became a trailblazer for African-American musicians. 

2. Aretha Franklin – 2009

The one and only Aretha Franklin performed “My Country, 'Tis of Thee” at President Obama’s first inauguration on January 20, 2009. The performance was full of soul and reverence as she honored the first black president in the United States. 

3. Jennifer Lopez – 2021

To a crowd wearing masks, Jennifer Lopez performed at Biden’s inauguration in 2021 with a medley rendition of “This Land Is Your Land”  and "America the Beautiful." JLo's vocals were praised, and she even spoke in Spanish before throwing in one of her signature lyrics, "Let's Get Loud."

4. Kelly Clarkson - 2013

After shooting to fame after winning American Idol in 2002, Kelly Clarkson performed "My Country, 'Tis of Thee' at Obama's 2013 inauguration.  The singer's rendition was beautiful and added a modern twist to the song written in 1831. Her vocals were always stunning, and her passion was undeniable.

5. Bruce Springsteen and Pete Seeger - 2009

After years of division, Bruce Springsteen played “Land of Hope and Dreams” for President Obama’s inauguration in 2009 along with Pete Seeger, who passed away in 2014. The rock legends had a powerful choir behind them as they called for unity. 

6. Lady Gaga – 2021

At President Biden’s inauguration on January 20, 2021, Lady Gaga stunned the crowd with her dramatic performance of the national anthem. Accompanied by the president's United States Marine band, she wore a large dove pin symbolizing unity and hope. Her vocals were incredible. 

7. Bob Dylan – 1993

Bob Dylan's relationship with politics has been described as "on and off," with the singer mostly steering clear of the conversation. That being said, he performed “Chimes of Freedom” during the inaugural celebration for President Bill Clinton in 1993 at the Lincoln Memorial. His powerful and poetic lyrics resonated with the themes of change and hope.