Tems, Stevie Wonder, John Legend to perform at Obama Presidential Center opening

By Adegboyega Adeleye

Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems will perform alongside music legends Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Bono and Bruce Springsteen at the grand opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on June 18.

The announcement was made by the Obama Foundation, which unveiled a star-studded lineup for the historic event celebrating the opening of former US President Barack Obama’s presidential center on Chicago’s South Side.

According to the foundation, the ceremony will serve as a celebration of democracy, culture, service and hope, bringing together global leaders, changemakers and some of the world’s biggest entertainers. The event will be livestreamed worldwide from the Center’s John Lewis Plaza.

“This Grand Opening ceremony will be unlike any other — filled with music, performances, and hope,” Obama Foundation Chief Executive Officer Valerie Jarrett said in a statement announcing the performers.

For Nigerian music fans, Tems’ inclusion further highlights her growing global profile. The multiple Grammy Award winner is among a select group of international artistes chosen for the landmark ceremony and remains the only Nigerian act on the lineup.

Other performers announced by the foundation include The Roots, Christina Aguilera, Common, Eddie Vedder, Jennifer Hudson, Marc Anthony, as well as U2 stars Bono and The Edge. Actress and producer Marsai Martin will also take part in the event.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama described the Presidential Center as a “full circle moment” for Chicago’s South Side, saying the project transforms a once underutilised space into a hub for history, leadership, education and community engagement.

The Obama Presidential Center will officially open to the public on June 19, with celebrations continuing throughout the Juneteenth weekend.

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