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Brandi Carlile and band perform at the White House, July 4th, 2010 (Barack Obama/Pete Souza/Facebook)
The President’s house might just be the hottest gig in the country right now. We’ll hear today about the long history of cultural events hosted by first families, including the Obamas. Plus: gospel legend Mavis Staples performs songs from her new album, helmed by Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy.
Music at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
President Obama and wife Michelle have hosted over 50 cultural events in the East Room of the White House: including performances by Paul McCartney, Joshua Bell, Stevie Wonder, Elaine Stritch, and the Marsalis family. They join a long line of administrations to use the White House as a platform to showcase the best of music and the arts.
Mavis Staples: In Studio
For her latest album, soul and gospel star Mavis Staples enlisted the songwriting and producing talents of Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy. The result is You Are Not Alone, a collection that includes two Tweedy originals as well as songs by Randy Newman, Allen Toussaint, Little Milton and others.
The Big Gig
John Schaefer likes the White House's new approach to live music.
Gig Alerts: Electric Junkyard Gamelan
The inventive, groove-centered D.I.Y. ensemble play Barbes tonight. Download their funk-inflected track "Space Kitty."
Gig Alerts: Plena Libre
The legendary Puerto Rican group bring their vivacious sound to Robert F. Wagner, Jr. Park as part of the River To River Festival. Download their high-energy track "Julieta."
Gig Alerts: Kooley High
The North Carolina-bred, Brooklyn-based hip-hop outfit have a new album out today, and they'll be performing tonight at S.O.B.'s. Download their '90s-influenced jam "Ya Time's Up."