The Show Must Go On: Trump's 2025 Inaugural Lineup
Title: Star-Studded Lineup at Trump's Inauguration Events: Carrie Underwood, Nelly, and the Villagers
Carrie Underwood is set to grace the stage at President-elect Donald Trump's second inauguration on January 20, 2025. She'll perform "America the Beautiful" before the President-elect takes the oath of office at the U.S. Capitol. Meanwhile, country music staple Lee Greenwood has also been tapped to perform during the swearing-in ceremony, singing his hit "God Bless The U.S.A." throughout the event 1.
Opera singer Christopher Macchio, whose vocals have been heard at various Republican events, will sing the National Anthem at the ceremony. The artist's management confirmed his participation in the event to multiple news outlets 1.
Village People, the iconic band behind the infectious "Y.M.C.A.", will also be performing at the inaugural festivities. The band is slated to take the stage at the Liberty Ball, following their appearance at Trump's pre-inauguration rally on Sunday. Additionally, sources have reported other country music acts lined up for the inaugural ball, including Jason Aldean and Rascal Flatts 1.
Country singer Gavin DeGraw and rapper Nelly are also set to make an appearance at the festivities. DeGraw will perform at the Starlight Ball, while Nelly is expected to take the stage at Monday's Liberty Inaugural Ball, according to CNN 2.
The Commander-in-Chief Ball, scheduled for Monday with remarks from the President-elect, will feature a performance by rising country star Parker McCollum 1.
Notably, rapper Snoop Dogg appeared at the "Inaugural Crypto Ball," held at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington D.C., on Friday 1.
The key question on many minds is: Why are these artists accepting invitations to perform at the Trump inauguration? Both Carrie Underwood and Village People have emphasized the need for unity, with Underwood stating that she was "humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future." The Village People expressed similar sentiments, acknowledging that their "preferred candidate lost," but sharing the hope that their song "Y.M.C.A." could "bring the country together after a tumultuous and divided campaign."
Trump's history with "Y.M.C.A." dates back to his 2020 and 2024 runnings for president, when the song became a staple at his rallies. Trump would often dance to the song, a simple motion of pumping both fists back and forth that became a memorable part of his performances.
The 2025 inauguration is shaping up to be a star-studded affair, with a diverse lineup of musicians set to perform. But whether such high-profile appearances can help heal the divide in the country or further polarize the population remains to be seen.
Footnotes:
[1] Associated Press, "Trump Inauguration: Carrie Underwood, Lee Greenwood and Christopher Macchio to Perform at Inaugural Ceremony," January 16, 2025.
[2] CNN, "Nelly to Perform at Trump's 2025 Inaugural Ball," January 17, 2025.
At the Liberty Ball, country artist Jason Aldean is anticipated to perform, joining the inaugural festivities alongside Village People and Rascal Flatts 1. Kid Rock, known for his politically charged music, has also expressed interest in performing at Trump's 2025 inauguration, although official confirmation is yet to be made 3. During the inauguration celebrations, Carrie Underwood will perform her rendition of "YMCA" alongside trumpeter Chris Botti, interpreting the Village People's iconic song in a unique way 1.
