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Make no mistake: President Barack Obama’s two terms in the White House were the happiest times in presidential history for Black Americans. In addition to introducing policy that helped our communities, we saw ourselves represented within walls that had been built by our ancestors. Obama brought policy and joy, parties and concerts, Easter egg hunts and talent shows— and everything in between. He also invited a plethora of Black stars to Washington, D.C. that included Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, Usher, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Jill Scott and many, many more. As we celebrate the birthday of our one and only African-American commander-in-chief, look back at his Blackest parties and events.
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President Barack Obama White House
Beyoncé sang “At Last” for President Barack and Michelle Obama’s first dance in the White House.
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President Barack Obama White House
Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys and Will.I.Am performed at the Inauguration Ball for the Obamas in 2009.
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President Barack Obama White House
The Obamas had a great time during the dinner for Mexican president, Felipe Calderón and First Lady Margarita Zavala, where Beyoncé and Mexican performers Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero sang.
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President Barack Obama White House
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama host “In Performance at the White House: Red, White and Blues” in celebration of blues music in the East Room of the White House for Black History Month.
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President Barack Obama White House
Lenny Kravitz attended the Kennedy Center Honors reception at the White House recognizing Buddy Guy, Dustin Hoffman, David Letterman.
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President Barack Obama White House
Alicia Keys performed during the Commander-In-Chief Ball celebrating the inauguration of U.S. President Barack Obama at the Walter Washington Convention Center.
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President Barack Obama White House
Mary J. Blige performing at the White House State Dinner in 2014.
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President Barack Obama White House
In addition to Beyoncé and JAY-Z, the Obamas invited Shaquille O’Neal to their annual Easter Egg Hunt in the White House garden.
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President Barack Obama White House
U.S. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama at BET’s ‘Love and Happiness: A Musical Experience” concert at the White House. The televised concert had performances from Usher, Jill Scott, John Legend and Bel Biv Devoe.
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President Barack Obama White House
Jill Scott performing at the BET’s ‘Love and Happiness: A Musical Experience” concert at the White House.
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President Barack Obama White House
The Obama family looked amazing for their last Holiday Party at the White House.
