The 'Celebrating America' concert lineup is what Las Vegas stages should look like in 2022
By OTS Staff
Taking a cue from the “Celebrating America” Inauguration Day concert, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Justin Timberlake and even, Tom Hanks all showed they need be next in line to get Las Vegas residencies. We can easily imagine these powerful artists making Park Theater or T-Mobile Arena their new homes when it’s safe to attend concerts again. As they gave heartwarming performances, they united us through screens across the country, delivering messages of hope. As Bon Jovi sang beautifully, “Here Comes the Sun,” rising out of some of the darkest days in America’s history, turning the page and beginning a new chapter. Here’s a recap of the inspiring performances and noteworthy moments from 2021’s Inaugural ceremony “Celebrating America.”
The COVID-19 Memorial
Prior to Inauguration Day, Biden and Harris came together to honor the memory of the lives lost to COVID-19. The Washington Memorial looked like a large glowing candle beside 400 lights illuminating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, representing the 400,000 souls lost during the pandemic. Gospel vocalist Yolanda Adams performed a tender rendition of “Hallelujah.”
Bruce Springsteen
A rock ‘n’ roll legend, “The Boss” doesn’t hold back. He started off the concert with a touching performance. His raw vocals and acoustic guitar gave us a stripped down version of his song, “Land of the Hope and Dreams,” setting an uplifting tone for the evening.
John Legend
Legend sang a powerful rendition of Nina Simone’s classic, “Feelin’ Good.” He played a grand piano as he belted the lyrics bearing his heart and soul.
Warm Words From Former Presidents
Three of our former Presidents, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama joined together to congratulate President Biden and demonstrate the power of unity. Despite their differences, they illustrated the strength and power in agreeing that building a brighter future for everyone is most important. “We have more in common than what separates us,” former President Obama eloquently said, emphasizing that we work best when we all work together.
Justin Timberlake
We had the opportunity to travel around the globe while sitting in the comfort and safety of our homes as we watched Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons, a dynamic duo, collaborate on a new song written specially for this occasion, “Better Days.” They performed on the streets of Memphis, Tennessee and in front of a movie marquee displaying, “Biden and Harris.”
Tom Hanks
There’s a reason Tom Hanks is known as “America’s Dad.” He speaks with passion and feels like family. He presented “Celebrating America” with grace. A true class act, as always. Hanks would make a fantastic storyteller on the Las Vegas stage. With all of the unique characters that he’s played over the years, we always welcome “Mr. Rogers” kin to our neighborhood. No one could have done it better.
A Bright Night
The historic evening program closed with vivid fireworks painting the sky as Katy Perry sang her hit, “Firework.” President Biden and the First Lady shined as they lead us into the future. From the balcony, they watched the world light up again, sparking excitement in America’s new beginning.
