Ep 2. Country Music

In Performance at The White House is a musical performance series that presents various genres and styles of music. The show often features famous performers who are invited to perform at the White House for an intimate audience. The episode Country Music, which is the second episode of the 2011 season, features a diverse group of talented musicians and singers who showcase the richness and diversity of country music.

The episode opens with a compilation of archival footage of previous country singers who have performed at the White House, including Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline. President Barack Obama then welcomes the audience and pays tribute to the contributions that country music has made to American culture.

The first performance of the evening is a duet between Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss, who deliver a beautiful rendition of the classic country song "Whiskey Lullaby." The two musicians are accompanied by a group of talented instrumentalists, including a mandolin player, a fiddler, and a guitarist, who create a rich and complex sound that adds depth to the emotional lyrics of the song.

Next up is Charley Pride, one of the most celebrated African American country singers of his time. Pride's performances of hits such as "Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'" and "Is Anybody Goin' to San Antone" are punctuated by his charming stories about growing up in rural Mississippi and the obstacles he faced breaking into the predominantly white world of country music.

Lyle Lovett takes the stage next, performing a mix of old and new songs. His performance of "Give Back My Heart" is a highlight of the evening, showing off his distinctive voice and clever, heartfelt songwriting. As he sings, the audience hears the sound of rain in the background, adding an extra layer of texture and mood to the performance.

Following Lovett is Dierks Bentley, who brings an energy that is both dynamic and electrifying. Bentley's performance of "Feel That Fire" is a standout, thanks to his catchy guitar riffs and commanding vocals. He also treats the audience to a newly written song, "Home," which he wrote in response to the tragedies of 9/11.

The evening's host, President Obama, introduces Kris Kristofferson as "one of the finest songwriters in history." Kristofferson performs some of his hit songs, including "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Help Me Make It Through the Night," as well as a few lesser-known tracks. His performance is marked by his gravelly voice and simple, yet powerful, lyrics.

The episode closes with a group performance of "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," featuring all of the night's performers and instrumentalists. The song, a traditional hymn that has become a staple of country music, is a fitting ending to an evening that has celebrated the rich history and diverse range of styles that make up the genre.

The Country Music episode of In Performance at The White House is a tribute to the genre's rich history and its continued relevance in American culture. Through the performances of both established and up-and-coming artists, viewers are reminded of the universal themes of life and love that are at the heart of country music. The audience is left with a greater appreciation of this uniquely American genre and its importance in shaping our cultural landscape.