Nigerian Grammy-winning singer Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, delivered a powerful performance at the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on Wednesday.
She joined an illustrious roster of global music icons at the high-profile dedication event, which was filled with music, applause, and celebratory moments.
According to CBS News, the ceremony took place at John Lewis Plaza on the 19-acre campus, formally dedicating the $850 million center ahead of its public opening on June 19. A series of community celebrations is scheduled to continue through June 21.
Tems shared the stage with a star-studded lineup that included Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Common, Bono and The Edge, Marc Anthony, and The Roots. The audience responded enthusiastically, with cheers and standing ovations throughout the program.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama and his family, including daughters Malia and Sasha, were in attendance and actively engaged with the performances. In a video clip shared online, Tems dressed in a vibrant red gown addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude: I am so blessed and honoured to be here… this is you, everyone, here, to Mr and Mrs Obama, to Sandra, and all the family.
Tems later admitted to feeling nervous during her appearance after accidentally misnaming Obama’s daughters while on stage. She addressed the moment on social media, writing: “Lord knows I was nervous! Please forgive me!!!”
Despite the slip, Tems received a warm reception for her performance at the globally televised event, which also featured appearances by former U.S. Presidents Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, as well as other notable international political, cultural, and entertainment figures.
The dedication ceremony marked the start of a three-day celebration, with the public opening on June 19 and community events continuing through June 21. The event also underscored the growing Nigerian presence at the Obama Presidential Center, which includes a portrait by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby on display there.
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