The celebration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris‘ inauguration continued Wednesday night (Jan. 20, 2021) with a TV special “Celebrating America.” Hosted by Tom Hanks, the show featured performances from the likes of Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, John Legend, and Demi Lovato among others in remote places.
As the final performer of the night, Katy oozed pride as she sang her hit “Firework” from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial while pyrotechnics bursting behind the Washington Memorial illuminated the sky. It was one spectacular fireworks event, capping off a night of performances and segments honoring American’s with a theme of unity.
While the “Teenage Dream” hitmaker belted out the song, there’s footage of President Joe Biden with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris with second gentleman Doug Emhoff standing on balconies overlooking the firework display over Washington, D.C.
Perry was wearing a Thom Browne all-white cashmere coat, satin corset and floor-length skirt.
Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons
Justin, meanwhile, teamed up with Ant Clemons for an uplifting performance of their collaboration “Better Days”. Singing from inside the iconic Stax Records in Memphis, the duo took it to the streets mid-song while being backed by a socially distanced band in an empty Memphis intersection.
John Legend
One of the performances that truly stood out was John Legend‘s rendition of “Feeling Good,” which received special attention from fans on social media.
The 11-time Grammy winner delivered a powerful performance on a grand piano in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC, singing a song made popular by Nina Simone in 1965.
Legend’s rendition of the song created quite a stir online. Some called it a great tribute to Ms Simone, while others echoed the sentiments of the song by posting lyrics that reflect fresh beginning and hope.
Demi Lovato
Lovato also brought a sense of optimism with her powerful rendition of “Lovely Day” from Los Angeles. Wearing a beige power suit, she performed in a studio with screens displaying the faces of famous people like Lin-Manuel Miranda and many health and essential workers being seen in the background.
In between the “Commander-in-Chief” songstress’ performance, the camera cut to show Biden holding his grandson Beau in his arms, as he, wife Jill and his family watched the televised special from what looks like a room in the White House.
The post-Inauguration special also featured performances by Tim McGraw, Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard, Foo Fighters, Black Pumas, Bruce Springsteen, and Jon Bon Jovi.
Launch the gallery above for photos from the Celebrating America event.
