Can you imagine what it must be like to sing for a live audience of over a half a million people as well as millions watching on TV? Well, this was a reality that Clay Aiken experienced on July 4, 2004.
From the west lawn of the Capitol, Clay joined a cast of some of the country’s best-known and award-winning musical artists in the PBS concert called A Capitol Fourth. Featuring patriotic classics as well as pop and country favorites, it was a night that got the audience on their feet and dancing to the beat of the fabulous music.
The concert was hosted by veteran actor and singer Barry Bostwick and, besides Clay, featured Nashville superstars Vince Gill and Amy Grant, legendary Bee Gees member Robin Gibb, and gospel legend Yolanda Adams. There was also a special 150th birthday salute to famed American composer and conductor John Philip Sousa, whose “Stars and Stripes Forever” has become a tradition on Independence Day. The soloists all joined the internationally renowned National Symphony Orchestra, directed by Erich Kunzel.
Clay started off the concert by singing The Star Spangled Banner with the symphony. According to the reviews, it was an outstanding rendition of our national anthem.
Later in the program, Barry Bostwick, who was very glowing in his praise of Clay and his relatively short musical career, introduced Clay. Measure of A Man was appropriately chosen as Clay’s first feature song. He sang it with a lot of emotion and the cameras showed close-ups of our brave service men and women who were a part of the audience. It was a very moving performance. Clay closed his part of the program by singing God Bless The USA, a patriotic song that was strong and dynamic.
Heard live in stereo over National Public Radio, A Capitol Fourth was broadcast to U.S. military personnel in more than 135 countries by the American Forces Radio and Television Network.
A Capitol Fourth in 2004 was a birthday party to our nation and a July 4th tradition much like hot dogs, watermelon and fireworks. It was a wonderful evening of musical entertainment that was topped off by an exciting display of fireworks over the Washington Monument.
The following videos show the Clay Aiken parts of the concert.
As we all take time to celebrate the anniversary of the beginning of our nation, CANN hopes that you enjoy some time with family and friends while remembering what a privilege it is to be an American.
Happy 4th of July and thanks for all your support.
Best Wishes to Clay Aiken!
Whatever you are doing, may your day be filled with joy, love and lots of fun!
Happy 4th of July everybody! Love those video's and have seen them over and over!
To think that Clay's appearance at 'A Capitol Fourth' was just a year after he finished 'Idol' says a lot about how the producers viewed his talent. I was so proud of him/for him and still am. Happy 4th to all.
Love reliving these moments and still get goosebumps listening to them! Happy 4th to all!
A true blast from the past. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was such an honor for Clay to be asked to do this program. None of us will forget it. Happy 4th to Clay and CANN. ❤️ UNCONDITIONAL love for you Clay. God bless America.
I agree zany! Clay still has it to this day. I never get tired of listening to Clay sing. Just wish he was still singing to the public. Doesn't get any better than Clay! Happy 4th of July everyone! Love CANN! An amazing site! Keep up the good work!
Thanks, Vickie….It's fun to keep up with news and to look back at special events!!
happy 4th of july everyone i think it was good of someone to ask clay to sing on the captial 4th i never ever get tired of clay singing it was indeed an honor for clay to be asked and i also say that cann is indeed an amazing site
Thank you! I am always happy when i see your name in the comments!!
Happy 4th of July everyone I just enjoy listening to Clay sing and so does my Son John
Kathy…I will have you and John in my thoughts for a successful surgery. Thank you for stopping by and letting us know about John.