A notable story from the nation’s capital hit early yesterday, which was surprisingly ignored by the music blogosphere: Just four months following Bob Dylan’s performance of “The Times They Are A-Changin’” for President Obama and company, Paul McCartney will be honored in the next chapter of the “In Performance at the White House” series.
In an intimate concert at the East Room next week, Sir Paul will be treated to tribute covers by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, the Jonas Brothers (?), Dave Grohl, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Herbie Hancock, and others, including… Jack White.
I was surprised, frankly, that White is set to perform at the White House next Wednesday (June 2), but it does make sense, given the night’s honoree: “Paul is my favorite Beatle,” White said last fall. “He’s been a big influence on me — especially the way that he sings.”
Great news all around, but the best part is that, yes, we will get to watch these performances as the pre-taped show will air on PBS in late July.