President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris have shared an upbeat Inauguration playlist ahead of the swearing-in ceremony this week, featuring artists like Whitney Houston, Kendrick Lamar and Stevie Wonder.
Beyonce’s ‘Find Your Way Back’, Bill Withers’ ‘Lovely Day’ and Dua Lipa’s ‘Levitating’ are just a few of the tracks on the diverse list designed for at-home Inauguration watching parties and for those who want to bust a move in celebration.
The playlist features 46 songs to celebrate the 46th President of the United States taking the oath of office and was curated by DJ D-Nice and Raedio, actress Issa Rae’s record label.
The playlist is part of the Presidential Inaugural Committee’s push to have Americans participate from home as traditional events like the parade have been canceled due to the pandemic.
‘During a tumultuous year that has kept so many loved ones apart, music has been a consistent vehicle that has kept us connected. Whether you are a country soul, a jazz enthusiast, a hip hop head, a classical sort, or just love that old-time rock and roll, music clarifies, inspires, unites, and heals,’ Presidential Inaugural Committee CEO Tony Allen said.
The playlist is available on streaming services Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal and Amazon Music.
The playlist includes a wide range of genres from electric music by Major Lazer to rock by Led Zeppelin, throwback hits by The Doobie Brothers and rap singles by Kendrick Lamar.
LISTEN: Biden/Harris Inaugural Playlist:
The Biden-Harris campaign’s celebratory theme song is ‘Higher Love’ by Kygo and Whitney Houston, which is also included in the music line-up.
‘These songs and artists reflect the relentless spirit and rich diversity of America. They are the score to a new chapter and will help bring people together as the Biden-Harris Administration begins its important work to unite our country,’ Allen said.
The Presidential Inaugural Committee is also creating a prime-time television special to air the night of inauguration.
The ‘Celebrating America’ special will be hosted by Tom Hanks and will air live on ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN and MSNBC from 8.30pm to 10pm EST on January 20.
It’ll feature performances by artists Jon Bon Jovi, who was seen on the campaign trail with Biden in Pennsylvania, Demi Lovato and Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons.
Last week the Inaugural Committee announced ‘America United’ will be the theme of this week’s event, sending a message of peace and unity following the January 6 Capitol riot.
In the spirit of a united front past presidents from across the political aisle will attend the ceremony including Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton along with all their wives.