Barack Obama Inauguration

January 22nd, 2013 | 11:34 am by Emily Exton (@emilyexton)

Beyoncé, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and Alicia Keys Put On A Show For Barack Obama

Yesterday was indeed a day to celebrate American political traditions and tremendous achievements in civil rights, but there were also plenty of fashions to covet and musical performances to look forward to in between the peaceful transfer of power. Capping off a long week of celebrity events in support of Barack Obama‘s second term, Beyoncé, Kelly Clarkson and James Taylor had the honor of performing during the official inauguration ceremony, live from the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. Taylor kicked things off with “America the Beautiful,” defending the right to wear fleece in public (and later providing astute political analysis for NBC), while Kelly dazzled and impressed the likes of Senator Chuck Schumer with her powerful version of “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee.”

“Wow” is right! Season 12 American Idol hopefuls take note: the AI OG remains the gold standard.

Get Excited For Barack Obama’s Inauguration By Listening To Some Beyoncé

Not only is Monday the climax of your three-day weekend, it’s an important moment in American history. Barack Obama will officially take office for his second term as President of the United States, with all sorts of pomp and circumstance that demands your full attention–so you can tell your friends and family members that you are sitting at home in your jammies in the name of patriotism. Plus, Beyoncé will be there.

Yes, you did it again, team!

Beyonce Pays Tribute To The Late Etta James

With music icons taking to Twitter today to share their condolences for the passing of the legendary Etta James, Beyoncé posted a personal message of admiration on her website. Of the late Etta James, Beyoncé wrote the following:

“This is a huge loss. Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time. I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime. Playing Etta James taught me so much about myself, and singing her music inspired me to be a stronger artist. When she effortlessly opened her mouth, you could hear her pain and triumph. Her deeply emotional way of delivering a song told her story with no filter. She was fearless, and had guts. She will be missed.”

The message was accompanied by Bey’s performance of “At Last” for Fashion Rocks 2008, in which her reverence for James is overt and sincere.