President Barack Obama hosted a PBS special tribute to Ray Charles at the White House, which aired on Feb. 26. Obama and First Lady Michelle were joined by singers Usher, Demi Lovato, Leon Bridges, Brittany Howard and more.
Obama reportedly said he would not sing during the tribute, Smithsonian Salutes Ray Charles: In Performance at the White House, on the night of Feb. 24 but did after all, according to PBS Newshour. Obama led the call and response in Ray Charles' song, "What'd I Say."
Obama spoke briefly, giving praise to Charles and calling him "one of the most brilliant and influential musicians of our times," CNN reported. Directly following Obama's remarks, Usher performed his own take on "What'd I Say."
Following Usher's performance, Obama went onstage again, accompanied by wife, Michelle, to thank the performers and musicians in attendance. Obama then sang his call and response from feeling the passion and homage in the air.
This is not the first time Obama has sung in public. According to CNN, he joined in for "Amazing Grace" at a memorial service for victims of the Charleston, South Carolina church massacre.
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