Musical Heritage at the White House

In June 2001, President Bush proclaimed the month of June, “Black Music Month,” encouraging “all Americans to learn more about the contributions of black artists to America's musical heritage and to celebrate their remarkable role in shaping our history and culture.” Performers Lionel Hampton, Shirley Caesar, Bobby Jones, James Brown, the Blind Boys of Alabama, and the Harlem Jazz Museum Artists attended the ceremony in the East Room.

During their first year in the White House, President and Mrs. Obama hosted a celebration of the music of Stevie Wonder, and welcomed Festiva Latina. Both events were part of the PBS series In Performance at the White House.

In the East Room, President Obama presented to Mr. Wonder the second annual Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, an award that honors artists “whose creative output transcends distinctions . . . , brings diverse listeners together, and fosters mutual understanding and appreciation.” In addition to Stevie Wonder, performers included India.Arie; Tony Bennett; Wayne Brady; Anita Johnson; Diana Krall; Mary Mary; Martina McBride; Rickey Minor; Paul Simon; Esperanza Spalding; and Will.i.am.

Festiva Latina, a concert dedicated to Hispanic musical heritage, took place on the South Lawn of the White House. Performers included Marc Anthony, Jimmy Smits, Eva Longoria Parker, Pete Escovedo, Gloria Estefan, José Feliciano, George Lopez, Thalía, Tito "El Bambino", Aventura, and Los Lobos. Sheila E. was musical director.

Landmark Era Performances

2001: George W. Bush proclaimed June as Black Music month and honored jazz legend Lionel Hampton in an East Room celebration that included performances by Regina Belle and Take 6.

2009: President and Mrs. Obama hosted a celebration of the music of Stevie Wonder on February 25, 2009, and welcomed Festiva Latina on October 14, 2009. Both events were part of the PBS series In Performance at the White House, which dates to 1978.