Ep 1. Red, White, and Blues
- February 27, 2012
In Performance at The White House is a musical series featuring popular artists and musicians performing live at the White House. The first episode of season 2012 is titled "Red, White, and Blues" and celebrates the rich history of blues music in America.
Hosted by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, the concert was held in the East Room of the White House and featured performances by legendary blues musicians including B.B. King, Mick Jagger, Buddy Guy, Jeff Beck, Keb' Mo', Susan Tedeschi, and Derek Trucks. The concert pays tribute to the roots of the blues and its influence on American music.
The episode starts with a lively performance by White House Chef and blues enthusiast Sam Kass who sings lead on "Let the Good Times Roll" alongside band members from the U.S. Marine Band. Kass' performance sets a fun tone for the rest of the show with many of the artists performing upbeat blues tunes.
Buddy Guy, a contemporary blues musician known for his passionate guitar playing and soulful vocals, performs "Sweet Home Chicago" to roaring applause from the audience. Jeff Beck, the renowned English rock guitarist, joins Guy on stage and the two perform a duet of "Let Me Love You Baby". The energy from the performance is palpable and showcases the chemistry between the two master musicians.
Keb' Mo', a blues artist known for blending traditional blues with contemporary sounds, performs "America the Beautiful" alongside Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks, two musicians known for their soulful voices and fiery guitar playing. The trio's stunning harmonies and gentle guitar playing highlight the beauty and diversity of America.
The episode also features performances by Mick Jagger and Jeff Beck, who team up for an electrifying version of the classic blues song "Commit a Crime". The infamous lineup of B.B. King, Mick Jagger, Buddy Guy, and Jeff Beck then take the stage together to perform "Five Long Years", a blues standard that dates back to the '50s.
The concert ends with a soulful performance by all the artists singing "The Thrill Is Gone" backed by a full band. The powerful lyrics and evocative guitar playing make for a poignant finale to an incredible night of music.
Overall, "Red, White, and Blues" is a celebration of the blues and its enduring legacy in American music. The episode is filled with memorable performances by some of the greatest blues musicians of all time, and highlights the importance of preserving the genre for future generations.
