Kelly Clarkson performed "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" at President Barack Obama's second inauguration on Monday, taking the stage immediately after Obama finished his inaugural address.
The singer was joined by the United States Marine Band.
Clarkson's performance came with its own backstory. In December 2011, Clarkson endorsed Republican Ron Paul, citing his "refreshing" small-government views. The singer -- who describes herself as "a Republican at heart" -- then said she would vote for Obama "again" after he announced his support for gay marriage.
The "American Idol" alum counts Sen. Chuck Schumer among her Washington fans. Schumer, the chairman of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, praised the singer in an appearance on HuffPost Live.
"I felt very good about myself, because I listened to her and I said, 'I really like her,' and then only later did I learn she had won 'American Idol,'" Schumer said. "So I was very glad that my tastes were the same as most of America's."
On Monday, Schumer responded to Clarkson's performance with just one word: "Wow!" Here's what Clarkson had to say for herself:
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.
