Last night, a spectacular Independence Day celebration unfolded at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue as President Biden played host to a remarkable event on the South Lawn of the White House. The festivities welcomed 7,500 guests, including military and veteran families, caregivers and survivors, National Park Service staff and families, Cabinet members and families, members of the Biden-Harris Administration, and senior White House staff.
The White House press corps, perpetually at the forefront of documenting historic moments, was present to witness this remarkable gathering and etch it into the annals of time.
The lineup of entertainment for the evening was nothing short of remarkable, featuring Grammy award-winning Brothers Osborne and three-time Grammy award-winning NE-YO.
Ahead of the concert, President Biden appeared on stage with Jill Biden and warmly welcomed guests and military families.
The night exuded sophistication as, unlike former President Trump, Biden eschewed cheap patriotism and instead curated an elegant and sophisticated Independence Day experience for the military families.
“Welcome to your house, the White House. We’re just rentin’,” he said to the guests sitting on blankets across the lawn.
Biden’s speech remained devoid of political overtones, creating a personal atmosphere. He spoke about the power of music and its ability to uplift moods and generate positive energy.
“It’s amazing what a difference music makes. No, no, I really mean it. Think about how music can change moods. Music can make us feel better,” Biden said. On the South Lawn, everyone was in high spirits. “Today’s America’s day,” he announced.
Then, NE-YO took the stage and transported everyone into his world of greatest tunes. The magical performance included hits such as “Miss Independent,” “Because of You,” “So Sick,” “Closer,” and the song “Let Me Love You” he wrote for Mario. NE-YO’s performance was of the highest possible artistic level, with every tone, sound, and word crystal clear and perfect. President Biden honored military families in a special way by providing them with what practically amounted to NE-YO’s private performance on the White House South Lawn.
It was quite striking how the White House transformed itself into low-key concert venue, a stark contrast of the best possible acoustic and entertainment experience and the casual, “Oh, we just happen to be at Biden’s backyard.”
The night exuded sophistication as, unlike former President Trump, Biden eschewed cheap patriotism and instead curated an elegant and sophisticated Independence Day celebration experience for the military families.
Standing on the South Lawn for a good three hours felt akin to stepping into a cinematic reverie, reminiscent of La La Land. Yet, it was a real-life moment, where even always serious political journalists were singing to NE-YO’s songs. Biden did not make the night about himself, allowing someone else to take center stage. NE-YO proved to be a perfect choice. The night was not about the Democrats, it was not about Republicans, it embodied the collective spirit of all Americans. A night of unity and inspiration.
As the clock struck 9:09 pm, President Biden, flanked by First Lady Jill Biden and members of their family, emerged onto the balcony of the South Portico. The sounds of the B-52s, The Beach Boys’ “Surfin’ USA,” Miley Cyrus, and “American Country Love Song” echoed across the South Lawn. The fireworks illuminated the sky, adding to the spectacle. It was an experience money can’t buy, a memory to be treasured and passed down through the annals of time. A good day to be an American.
