My Publicist Note Book

But as Obama explained, the evening was not just about "black music."   "This is an essential part of the American experience," he said. "It’s a mirror (of) who we are and a reminder of who we can be." Held on the White House's South Lawn last month, the star-studded musical celebration, aired Tuesday and served as "a love letter to the president and first lady" and featured powerhouse performances from Jill Scott, Janelle Monaé, Common, Usher, Bell Biv DeVoe, The Roots, De La Soul, Yolanda Adams, Michelle Williams, Kierra Sheard, and f ormer Hamilton star Leslie Odom, Jr. "This event may be called Love & Happiness, but much to — I know — your sadness and regret, I will not be singing Al Green," Obama deadpanned to the audience. But he said the special is a more enduring tradition. "Ever since 1801, when the U.S. Marine Band played the first reception hosted by (President) John and (first lady) Abigail Adams,...