Beyonce's Inauguration Performance: Singer Belts National Anthem After Obama Takes Second Oath

If there's a musical act "headlining" the 2013 Presidential Inauguration, it's Beyonce. The singer's performance of the National Anthem was a capstone to the official proceedings of the inauguration, and served as the marker between the events on the steps of the capitol and the inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue.

Beyonce was hardly the only performer to make an impression over the weekend. Kelly Clarkson sang "My Country 'Tis of Thee" immediately after Barack Obama delivered his inaugural address and James Taylor sang "America the Beautiful."

From our earlier reporting:

A host of other musicians and singers were spotted at events surrounding the actual inauguration. Katy Perry, Stevie Wonder and Usher were among those who scored inauguration weekend gigs.

One of the President's favorite genres was celebrated at the Hip-Hop Inaugural Ball, where rappers 2 Chainz and MC Lyte and singer John Legend were honored at the Sunday night event.

Their speeches were far better received than an impromptu one by rapper Lupe Fiasco, who was reportedly pulled from the stage after an anti-Obama rant of sorts at the StartUp RockOn concert.

Four years ago, Aretha Franklin sang "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" and The United States Navy Band "Sea Chanters" chorus performed "The Star-Spangled Banner." Barack and Michelle Obama famously danced to Beyonce's cover of Etta James' "At Last" at an inaugural ball.

Audio of Beyonce's National Anthem soundcheck was posted online Monday. Take a listen below.

Repost Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/