The White House Stage: A History of Music, Presidents, and the People’s House
The White House, a symbol of American democracy, has long served as a stage for the nation’s most celebrated artists. Presidents, throughout history, have infused their personal musical tastes into the entertainment offered within its walls, creating a unique tapestry of sound that reflects both the individual leader and the spirit of the times. From classical melodies to rousing show tunes, the White House has resonated with a diverse range of musical expressions. Our current president is no different, as he and his wife are carrying on the tradition in new and unique ways.
One surprising commonality between President John F. Kennedy and President Donald J. Trump is their shared appreciation for the world of musicals. The Kennedy era, famously dubbed "Camelot" by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, was inspired by the enchanting musical of the same name, a testament to the president’s fondness for the art form. Decades later, First Lady Melania Trump has rekindled this connection, sparking conversations on social media about the role of musicals in the White House’s cultural landscape.
Each year, the President and First Lady host the nation’s governors at the White House for the National Governors Association’s annual winter meeting. Traditionally, discussions revolve around unifying themes for the nation’s governors, the meticulously planned candlelight dinner crafted by the First Lady and the Executive Residence staff, and the First Lady’s striking fashion choices. However, this year, the spotlight shifted to the musical performance by the United States Army Chorus.
As the uniformed members of the chorus processed into the East Room, the familiar strains of "God Bless the USA" and "Do You Hear the People Sing?" from the iconic musical "Les Misérables" filled the air. These performances sparked speculation across media platforms, with some interpreting them as a subtle form of protest by the military, assuming the chorus had independently chosen the repertoire. However, the reality is far simpler: President Trump genuinely enjoys musicals, with that particular song especially beloved. Furthermore, both President and Mrs. Trump deeply value and wish to showcase the talent and dedication of the United States military, leading to their selection as the evening’s performers, as opposed to a civilian act.
The tradition of inviting the nation’s governors to dine at the White House dates back to President Lyndon B. Johnson, who believed in fostering collaboration and shared understanding between the federal and state governments. It was the Nixon administration, however, that elevated the event into the modern-day Governors Ball, a formal black-tie affair complete with a receiving line, a formal dinner, and after-dinner entertainment.
In 1974, during President Richard Nixon’s final year in office, the Governors Ball featured a memorable performance by Pearl Bailey, one of the president’s favorite entertainers. Initially scheduled to conclude with her hit song "Hello Dolly," the performance took an unexpected turn when Bailey playfully teased Nixon about his piano skills, quipping, "You don’t play as well as I sing, but I don’t sing as well as you govern." She then coaxed him into playing the piano, playfully objecting when he chose "Home on the Range." The evening culminated in a spontaneous rendition of "God Bless America," with the entire audience joining in song.
The tradition of show tunes and lively entertainment continued beyond the Nixon era. President Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford had initially planned for a simple evening of dancing to the music of a New York-based pianist. However, the presence of Pearl Bailey once again injected a dose of spirited energy into the event, as she treated the guests to her classic hits.
Even the Carter administration, not particularly known for lavish entertainment, recognized the value of music in bringing people together. In 1978, they secured Beverly Sills, who was preparing to open a revival of "Merry Widow" at the Metropolitan Opera, to headline the evening. The Washington Evening Star hailed the event, noting that Sills "transformed it into a truly elegant ball." Dressed in a turn-of-the-century style gown of ivory satin with giant leg-of-mutton sleeves, the soprano, accompanied by baritone Alan Titus, captivated the audience with selections from the Viennese operetta.
More recent presidents have also welcomed renowned performers to the White House. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush once invited Vince Gill and Amy Grant to entertain their guests. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, known for their love of music, hosted legends such as Gladys Knight, Dianne Reeves, and Earth, Wind & Fire for the Governors Ball.
Sometimes, a president’s musical choices are simply a reflection of personal taste, devoid of political messaging. President Trump, a known admirer of musical theater, has a diverse playlist that includes both the Village People’s "YMCA" and selections from "Phantom of the Opera," songs often heard at his rallies.
What distinguished President and Mrs. Trump’s recent Governors Ball was not necessarily the music itself, but the performers who brought it to life. The Trump White House has consistently prioritized showcasing military bands at its events, elevating their presence to a level not seen in previous administrations.
From the annual White House Easter Egg Roll to the most formal state dinners, the military bands have been prominently featured. The State Dinner in honor of Australia, in particular, showcased the largest gathering of United States military musicians ever assembled for such an occasion at the White House.
More than any other modern-day White House, President and Mrs. Trump have established a distinct hallmark by showcasing America’s finest military musicians on the grandest stage: the People’s House. Their dedication to honoring the men and women in uniform through the power of music has created a unique and memorable chapter in the White House’s long and storied history.
