As part of their “In Performance at the White House” series, the Obamas have invited Justin Timberlake, Al Green, Queen Latifah and many others to perform at the White House next week in a “Memphis Soul” concert, the White House announced today.
According to the press release, the concert will include performances by Alabama Shakes, William Bell, Steve Cropper, Al Green, Ben Harper, Queen Latifah, Cyndi Lauper, Joshua Ledet, Sam Moore, Charlie Musselwhite, Mavis Staples and Justin Timberlake, with Booker T. Jones as music director and band leader.
The First Lady will also host a special daytime event for students. Mrs. Obama will welcome 120 middle and high school students from across the country to take part in an interactive student workshop event: “Soulsville, USA: The History of Memphis Soul.” Featured performers from the evening event will share their experiences in music and the entertainment world.
“In Performance at the White House: Memphis Soul” will be the tenth program of the series hosted by the Obamas. According to the release, these events have honored “the musical genius of Stevie Wonder, Sir Paul McCartney, Burt Bacharach and Hal David; celebrated Hispanic musical heritage during Hispanic Heritage Month; marked Black History Month with events featuring music from the Civil Rights Movement, Motown and the Blues; spotlighted Broadway and the unique spirit of the American musical; and explored the rich roots and resiliency of Country Music.”
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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