Bruce Springsteen paid tribute to Barack Obama by quoting the Former President’s words introducing his song at the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center. The museum honoring his presidency marked its launch on June 18 in Chicago, Illinois. Springsteen joined notable artists like Stevie Wonder, Eddie Vedder, Christina Aguilera, John Legend, and Jennifer Hudson in the celebration.
Bruce Springsteen pays tribute to Barack Obama during grand opening
Legendary musician Bruce Springsteen paid tribute to Barack Obama during his performance at the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center. During the introduction of his song, Springsteen decided to recall words by Obama himself (via The Mirror).
Springsteen took the stage to play his 1999 classic, Land of Hope and Dreams. “I’m so glad to be here this afternoon for President Obama, and Michelle, Malia, Sasha,” he said ahead of the performance, “You know how I love you all. ‘Oh, what a glorious task we are given to continuously strive to improve this great nation of ours.’ That was from President Obama’s speech in Selma.”
Springsteen continued, “President Obama and Michelle, you have exemplified that ideal with lives that have served us all with heart and commitment and love and compassion. This is ‘Land of Hope and Dreams.’ This is for you.”
Barack Obama gave this speech at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, marking the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Marches.
The evening was filled with many notable stars, including Stevie Wonder, Eddie Vedder, Christina Aguilera, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, and many others. There were also other big names in attendance, including Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, George Lucas and Mellody Hobson, LL Cool J, Stephen Colbert, Gabrielle Union, Quinta Brunson, Steven Spielberg, and many others.
