    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [May 6, 1996]
    [Page 695]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 695]]

    Remarks During ``In Performance at the White House''
    May 6, 1996

        Thank you very much. There is another benefit to you that we heard
    them all practicing, which is you won't have to endure our impulse sing-
    along night. We did that yesterday. [Laughter]
        The two artists with us tonight are classic examples of the
    splendid, intricate tapestry of American music. Both have expanded their
    own musical horizons and ours as they have woven the richness of their
    own heritage into popular culture.
        In 1993, these Grammy Award winners performed during the inaugural
    celebration for Hillary and me and for all of America. They were truly a
    highlight of that extraordinary week. This evening we are thrilled to
    have them join us for the first time here at the White House.
        It has been said of Aaron Neville that when he sings, ``It's like a
    knowing angel who has experienced both Heaven and the gritty reality of
    a working man's life.'' Aaron's style reflects the lush multicultural
    mix of his native city of New Orleans. He has blended rock and funk,
    gospel and country, and rhythm and blues to create the rich, exciting
    sound that is unmistakably all his own.
        Our other guest reflects the finest spirit of our great country. Her
    willingness to experiment while maintaining the best of the past has
    helped her sell more than 30 million recordings. By combining the
    mariachi sounds of Mexico, big band swing, rock and roll, Broadway, and
    opera, she has won devoted followers everywhere in the music world.
    Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce Linda Ronstadt.

    Note: The President spoke at 8 p.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House.