Broadcast live on an open signal from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., by HBO. "We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" performance was a two-hour historical event organized with themes that shaped President Obama's campaign and will be the hallmarks of his administration. Being surrounded by an estimated half million people was well worth braving the cold, long security lines, and the hassles.
The list of musical performers featured: Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Renee Fleming, Josh Groban, Herbie Hancock, Heather Headley, Bettye LaVette, Jon Bon Jovi, Mstr. Sgt. Caleb Green (U.S. Army), John Legend, Jennifer Nettles, John Mellencamp, Usher Raymond IV, Pete Seeger, Shakira, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor, U2, Will.i.am and Stevie Wonder.
Among those that read historical passages were Jamie Foxx, Martin Luther King III, Queen Latifah, Denzel Washington, Jack Black, Steve Carell, Rosario Dawson, Tom Hanks, Laura Linney, Ashley Judd, Kal Penn, Forest Whitaker, Samuel L. Jackson and Tiger Woods. The Reverend V. Gene Robinson gave the invocation.
"The list of stars is impressive. But this is not a show biz, glitzy occasion. It's going to be rooted in history, remembering the great president (Lincoln) who led us through difficult times," - executive producer George Stevens Jr.
Giant LED Screen * "WE ARE ONE - THE OBAMA INAUGURAL CELEBRATION AT THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL" was the title given to this historic celebration of a new era. Giant jumbo-trons helped project the event for people not close to the stage.
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Episcopal Reverend V. Gene Robinson gives ceremony invocation * Bishop Robinson is best known for being the first openly gay, non-celibate, divorced priest.
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The "First Families" at the Lincoln Memorial * President-elect and Vice President-elect's children watch on as Reverend V. Gene Robinson gives the invocation to start the celebration
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United States' Army Herald Trumpets * Whether arrayed on the balcony of the White House hailing the arrival of visiting dignitaries from around the world, performing the National Anthem on the 50-yard line of the Superbowl, or hailing the inauguration of a President, The United States Army ...
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Hundreds of thousands Gather for Historic Inaugural Opening Ceremony * Obama-adorers pack the National Mall original estimates for the crowd was 150,000 but has been quoted as high as 500,000
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Herald Trumpet Drummer * Army Herald trumpet drummer at the Lincoln Memorial performing at the Obama Inaugural Celebration held January 18, 2009
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Army Herald Trumpets Herald Trumpets performing National Anthem
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U.S. Army Herald Trumpets The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets perform at the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
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Jill Biden with Vice President-elect Joe Biden * Vice President Joe Biden and his wife descending the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the "We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at The Licoln Memorial in Washington, DC
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President-elect Barack and Michelle Obama * President Barack Obama waves to his supporters from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial
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President-elect Barack Obama and Michelle Obama wave to the crowd * The President-elect and First Lady-to-be wave to the crowd at the beginning of the Celebration honoring the newly elected President
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President-elect Barack and Michelle Obama * President-elect Barack Obama and his wife Michelle making their initial appearance
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President-elect Barack and Michelle Obama * The President-elect and his wife are ready to enjoy the star-studded Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial
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The First Couples' Jill Biden, Vice President-elect Joe Biden, President-elect Barack Obama, and Michelle Obama wave to the crowd.
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President-elect Barack and Michelle Obama * Barack and Michelle smile at their family and friends.
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