NEW YORK — Country music sensation Carrie Underwood is set to deliver a rendition of “America the Beautiful” at Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration, which will take place next week. Additionally, the iconic disco group Village People is scheduled to perform at two events during the inauguration festivities.
Underwood, who gained fame through “American Idol,” will sing just before Trump officially takes the presidential oath at the U.S. Capitol on January 20, as indicated in the inaugural program released recently. In a statement, Underwood expressed her gratitude, saying, “I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”
Known for their energetic music and vibrant performances, the Village People made waves in the late 1970s with their chart-topping dance hits. Their famous anthem “Y.M.C.A.” gained prominence as a symbol within the LGBTQ+ community and has made appearances at rallies for Trump throughout the previous election cycle. The group has confirmed they will perform at one of Trump’s inaugural balls as well as at a rally in Washington just prior to the inauguration.
“We know this won’t make some of you happy to hear; however, we believe that music is to be performed without regard to politics,” the Village People said in a Facebook post. They added that their song “Y.M.C.A.” embodies a global unity that they hope could contribute to healing in the country following a divisive election campaign.
The inaugural celebrations will also feature performances from country artist Lee Greenwood and opera singer Christopher Macchio, both among Trump’s musical favorites. The ceremonial events will commence with a grand display this weekend in Washington, which includes a fireworks showcase at Trump’s golf club, a rally, and a visit to Arlington National Cemetery before the former president takes his oath of office.
Trump’s second inauguration is anticipated to contrast sharply with the previous one held in January 2021, particularly as Trump did not participate in the swearing-in of President Joe Biden, who was inaugurated amid the aftermath of the January 6 siege. A formal schedule was released for the four-day event leading up to the January 20 ceremony, which Biden is expected to attend.
According to the inaugural committee, “President Trump is dedicated to uniting the country through the strength, security, and opportunity of his America First agenda,” as expressed by Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler, the committee’s co-chairs. Witkoff is set to serve as Trump’s emissary to the Middle East, while Loeffler is appointed to head the Small Business Administration.
The inaugural festivities will reflect Trump’s return to the presidency, coinciding with the significant electoral support he received. The Saturday itinerary includes a reception and fireworks at Trump National Golf Club, wherein Vice President-elect JD Vance will host a gathering for the new Cabinet members. On Sunday, Trump is slated to lay a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by a campaign-style rally at Capital One Arena, where the Village People will also perform.
On Inauguration Day, the day will feature tea at the White House, the official swearing-in at the Capitol, a lunch for Congress members, a parade along Pennsylvania Avenue, along with three inaugural balls. These balls include the Commander in Chief Ball, which honors military personnel, a Liberty Inaugural Ball for Trump supporters featuring the Village People, and the Starlight Ball for high-profile donors. Trump is expected to address attendees at each of these events.
The following day, the inaugural parade will involve approximately 7,500 participants, including first responders, veteran organizations, and various school marching bands. Notably, first responders from Butler County, Pennsylvania, will participate, representing the area where Trump faced an assassination attempt. In a contrast to the last inauguration, incoming First Lady Melania Trump is set to join the Bidens for tea, following their absence during Biden’s swearing-in.
The president-elect plans to hold a National Prayer Service on his first full day in office. Greenwood will perform as Trump approaches the podium to take the oath, while Macchio has been designated to sing the National Anthem. Having already performed at significant Republican events, Macchio comes with a degree of familiarity with the current administration’s gatherings.
The invocation will be given by Franklin Graham, while New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan is also expected to partake. Trump’s initial inauguration in 2017 featured performances from an array of artists, including the Rockettes and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Besides the official celebrations, alternative events hosted by various groups are planned around Washington, aiming to celebrate the new president. Among the attendees at one such event, the Legacy of Freedom Ball, are various celebrities including popular YouTube personalities and former athletes.
