Beyoncé, James Taylor perform for Obama, Biden inauguration
Wide-ranging performers during inaugural events span Usher to Lynyrd Skynyrd
CBC News
Posted: Jan 21, 2013 12:17 PM ET
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2013 5:53 PM ET
Beyoncé sings the U.S. national anthem to close the ceremonial swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol during the 57th Presidential Inauguration in Washington on Monday. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais/Associated Press)
Top singers and veteran recording artists have gathered in Washington to perform for the second-term inauguration of U.S. President Barack Obama and U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden.
Monday's ceremony included performances by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (Battle Hymn of the Republic), James Taylor (America the Beautiful), Kelly Clarkson (My Country 'Tis of Thee) and Beyoncé with the U.S. Marine Band (The Star-Spangled Banner).
Beyoncé previously sang the Etta James classic At Last during Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama's first dance at the 2009 inaugural ball, while Taylor performed at Obama rallies and fundraisers during the recent presidential campaign.
Monday's midday ceremony also included Cuban-American poet Richard Blanco's recitation of a poem he composed for the occasion.
A wide range of artists have performed at official events over the inaugural weekend, from Katy Perry at a kids' concert to Lynyrd Skynyrd at an event for members of the military.
Canadian performers participating include singer Crystal Shawanda and comedian Gerry "the Big Bear" Barrett.
On Thursday, Obama also released a somewhat youth-oriented inauguration music playlist, which included songs by artists performing during the festivities. The list included acts such as Taylor, Beyoncé, Stevie Wonder, Usher, .fun, John Legend, Alicia Keys, the cast of Glee and Brad Paisley.
Singer Kelly Clarkson sings My Country 'Tis of Thee at the ceremonial swearing-in for President Barack Obama at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Monday. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais/Associated Press)
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