Nigerian songstress Tems is set to perform alongside music legends Stevie Wonder and John Legend at the official opening of the Barack Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago on Thursday. The announcement comes a day after Nigerian artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby unveiled the official portrait of former U.S. President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama for the centre.
Star-Studded Lineup
Former President Barack Obama revealed the performance lineup in an Instagram reel featuring a playful chat thread. The confirmed performers include Bono & The Edge, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Common, Eddie Vedder, and Jennifer Hudson. Latin music icon Marc Anthony will share the stage with producer Marsai Martin and The Roots.
A Landmark Venue
The Obama Presidential Centre is a landmark venue that combines a museum, library, and educational hub. It will also host community spaces, conference facilities, and the nonprofit Obama Foundation. The centre is located on the South Side of Chicago, a location that holds deep personal meaning for Michelle Obama.
Michelle Obama's Reflection
In a separate Instagram post, Michelle Obama reflected on the site's transformation. 'The opening of the Presidential Center right here on the South Side of Chicago is truly a full circle moment,' she said. 'So much of my existence as a child into high school was driving past this very location where was really nothing. It was a highway. It was a dangerous place. It was an unutilised park space.'
