Some of the most talented Black singers and entertainers in American history have performed for both current and potential presidents. They are there to rally support for a particular candidate, or sometimes it’s because that politician enjoys the artist’s music.
Suggested Reading
With a new election just around the corner, we decided to take a look back at some of the notable performances by Black artists during the past election cycles.
Beyoncé
Beyoncé has performed for the Obamas on multiple occasions. But her most memorable performance may have been at the Inauguration Ceremony in 2013.
John Legend
It’s hard not to enjoy John Legend’s soulful and soothing voice, so it was only right that he was tapped to perform at Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ inauguration in 2021.
Stevie Wonder
While he was still campaigning during his initial run, Barack drew several legendary Black artists. One of them was Stevie Wonder, who performed at a church in Los Angeles in April 2007 to commemorate the LA riots 15 years earlier in April 1992. He continued to perform at multiple rallies for Obama during his next presidential campaign for the 2012 elections
Jay-Z
During a campaign rally in Columbus Ohio in 2012, Hov was tapped by Obama to help increase support. He famously performed “99 Problems” and changed the lyrics to say, “I got 99 Problems, but Mitt ain’t one!”
Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige’s soulful voice was appreciated at the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina in front of thousands of Democrats.
Common
During a virtual 2020 Democratic National Convention, Common and John Legend joined forces to perform their Grammy-winning record, “Glory.”
Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson and her booming voice also took center stage at the virtual 2020 Democratic National Convention where she sang a rendition of “A Change is Gonna Come.”
Ray Charles
At the 50th Presidential Inauguration Ball for Ronald Reagan in 1985, Ray Charles offered his services and performed, “America the Beautiful.”
Will.i.am
Will.i.am and John Legend joined forces at the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver to perform “Yes We Can.”
Alicia Keys
The 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia was stacked with great singers. Alicia Keys was one of the more notable performers, who sang “Superwoman,” which was fitting considering Hillary Clinton was attempting to become the first woman to become president.
Andra Day
Grammy-winning artist Andra Day also performed “Rise Up” at the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
Lenny Kravitz
All-around entertainer Lenny Kravitz also took to the DNC stage in 2016.
Usher
In commemoration of Ray Charles, R&B legend Uhher performed the classic record, “Georgia on My Mind” in front of the Obamas and a small intimate crowd.
Chrisette Michele
In a move that has derailed her career since, Chrisette Michele performed for President Donald Trump at his Inaugural Ball in 2017.
Bell Biv Devoe, Michelle Williams, Jill Scott, Etc.
To celebrate Michelle and Barack’s tenure in the White House, several Black artists performed for the lovely couple, including Bell Biv Devoe, Michelle Williams, and Jill Scott.
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.
