Neil Diamond, Mary J. Blige among performers at National Building Museum
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President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama joined performers onstage at the annual "Christmas in Washington" concert.
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Alex Brandon / AP
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Interviews, performances
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updated 9:15 p.m. ET Dec. 13, 2009
WASHINGTON
- The nation's capital got in the holiday spirit Sunday night when
music legends Neil Diamond and Mary J. Blige performed for President
Barack Obama at the annual "Christmas in Washington" concert.
The
festivities, hosted by comedian George Lopez, took place at the
National Building Museum and benefited the Children's National Medical
Center.
"This
season we celebrate that sacred moment, the birth of a child, the
message of love preached to the world," Obama said from the stage,
where he was joined by first lady Michelle Obama. "More than 2,000
years later, that spirit still inspires us."
The president spoke of helping those in need during the holidays, as well as honoring those in the military.
"With
our men and women in uniform serving far from home, in harm's way, our
fervent wish remains this season, and all seasons: Let there be peace
on earth," he said.
Diamond
kicked off the concert by performing "Joy to the World" and "Winter
Wonderland." Blige wowed the crowd with "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts
Roasting on an Open Fire)."
Two
of the holiday songs were original numbers. Country group Sugarland
performed "Gold and Green" and Rob Thomas sang "A New York Christmas."
R&B
singer Usher sang "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and Internet
sensation Justin Bieber performed "Someday at Christmas."
After
addressing the crowd, the Obamas stayed on stage with all the
performers to sing carols, starting with "Hark, the Herald Angels
Sing." The president wiped a tear from his eye during the sing-along.
The concert will air Dec. 20 on TNT.