Obama Celebrates Blues Music at White House Concert

Posted February 22nd, 2012 at 2:50 am (UTC-5)
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U.S. President Barack Obama got another chance to show off his musical skills at the White House Tuesday night.

“Come on…baby don't you want to go? Come on…baby don't you want to go? Same old place…Sweet Home Chicago!”

The president traded lyrics with the legendary B.B.King on the blues classic dedicated to Mr. Obama's adopted hometown. The impromptu duet capped a celebration of the American musical art form hosted by the president and his wife, Michelle.

“”As we celebrate Black History Month, the blues reminds us that we've been through tougher times before. That's why I'm proud to have these artists here, not just as a fan but also as the president.”

Other performers included blues legend Buddy Guy and Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger.

“I've been waiting in the hall, waiting for your call, and the phone rang. It's just some friends of mine, hey what's the matter now, we gonna come around 12 with some Puerto Rican girls that's just dying to meet you.”

President Obama's brief rendition of the R-and-B classic “Let's Stay Together” at a campaign event last month drew millions of hits on YouTube and led to his duet with King at the White House.

The concert will be broadcast next week on U.S. public television.