Former President Barack Obama has lined up a galaxy of superstars to help him celebrate the grand opening of his Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Thursday’s (June 18) event — which will livestream globally at noon ET — will feature performances and appearances from U2’s Bono and The Edge, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Common, Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Stevie Wonder, Tems and The Roots.
In addition, the event will feature an appearances by the nonprofit arts-based youth development organization Guitars Over Guns, the Illinois Army National Guard and Uniting Voices Chicago, as well as speeches from Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. The lineup was announced in a social post featuring an animated group chat with the various artist’s excited responses to the invitation to appear alongside the Obama, with Springsteen asking, “Is this really happening [mind blown emoji], The Roots responding, “Beyond honored. Can’t wait to celebrate with you” and hometown hero JHud adding, “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
According to a statement, the grand opening marks the official dedication of the towering center Chicago’s South Side, with the livestream bringing together, “global leaders, artists, changemakers, and citizens for an inspiring celebration of the values that shaped the Obama presidency and continues to inspire people everywhere to believe in their power to create change.”
The $850 million Center financed through private donations sits on a 19.3-acre campus in the city’s Jackson Park and officially opens to the public on Friday (June 19), Juneteenth, with a series of celebrations and events planned for the public throughout the weekend.
Check out the announcement below.
