The ‘American Idol’ winner sang outside the Capitol
WASHINGTON (AP) - Beyonce drew a loud cheer from the audience Monday even before her impressive rendition of the national anthem.
The applause started when she took her place with Jay-Z at the Capitol to watch President Barack Obama take the oath for his second term in office. The two stopped to chat with the Rev. Al Sharpton.
James Taylor kicked off the musical performances, strumming his guitar and singing "America the Beautiful." Kelly Clarkson followed with an unusual arrangement of "My Country 'Tis of Thee." Then Beyonce was introduced and the crowd again roared its approval.
The pop goddess may have been the star musical attraction, but she had plenty of company from Hollywood at the Capitol on Monday. Katy Perry and John Mayer sat side-by-side, with Perry in an orange-striped coat and wide hat.
Actress Eva Longoria was seated on the platform outside the Capitol after making an appearance at a Kennedy Center performance Sunday night. (Perry sang the night before, at the children's concert.)
Former Boston Celtics great Bill Russell was in the crowd, too, along with actor Marlon Wayans.
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