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Chrisette Michele to play Donald Trump’s inauguration despite backlash

The Roots drummer, Questlove, Tweeted: 'I'd pay Chrisette to NOT perform'

Jack Shepherd
Thursday 19 January 2017 09:52 GMT
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Singer Chrisette Michele
Singer Chrisette Michele (Getty)

Donald Trump’s inauguration has hit a few speed bumps over the last two months, with numerous performers - including a Bruce Springsteen tribute band - pulling out.

However, the team behind the inauguration are likely thanking their lucky stars as Grammy-winner Chrisette Michele - who recently appeared on Obama's 2016 playlist - has reportedly agreed to play.

According to New York Daily News, a deal was finalised a week ago, but has been kept secret as Michele’s camp believed seven days of criticism from fans and the media would break the deal.

Concerns grew as Jennifer Holliday dropped out, citing a “lapse of judgement” for the initial decision and apologising to the LGBT community.

The publication reporters how Michele’s team were initially asked if the singer could perform the song "Intentional" with Travis Greene, Jonathan McReynolds and Tye Tribbett, following a similar performance by the same artists at the BET awards. The other artists declined the invitation.

Since the new of Michele’s performance was made public, a variety of artists have called for her not to perform, including The Roots drummer Questlove, who Tweeted: “I'd pay Chrisette to NOT perform.”

Other artists performing at the ceremony include a variety of country artists, YouTube sensation The Piano Guys, and 3 Doors Down. See the full line-up here.

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