    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [June 3, 1998]
    [Page 880]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at WETA's ``In Performance at the White House''
    June 3, 1998

        First, welcome to the White House and to another year of celebrating
    the beauty, the power, the diversity of American music. All our music is
    an important part of our national heritage. We must and we're going to
    do more to celebrate it as we move forward toward the millennium.
        We've had in this White House, since I've been privileged to be
    here, jazz music and classical music, country music and rock music,
    rhythm and blues. We've had just about everything you can imagine. But
    tonight we celebrate music that is truly an American gift. Wedded to the
    powerful message of faith and conviction, gospel lifts our hearts and
    minds and soothes our souls, calms our spirits.
        Gospel grew out of the musical traditions of Africa. Its roots were
    nourished by the blood, the sweat, the tears of millions of people who
    were held captive in slavery. Throughout this century, particularly
    during the civil rights era, the amazing grace of gospel music has been
    a sustaining force for countless Americans. It's a voice of hardship and
    hope, of pain and triumph.
        And as we'll see tonight, gospel music's appeal now embraces
    Americans of very many different backgrounds and religious affiliations.
    Tonight we have with us people with great voices and great hearts: the
    Morgan State University Choir; Phil Driscoll;
    Mickey Mangun and the Messiah Singers from
    Louisiana; and our terrific mistress of ceremonies, CeCe Winans.
        CeCe has an extraordinary ability to blend
    the wide range of popular styles into traditional gospels. She and her
    brother BeBe did a wonderful job at my Inaugural
    church service. She's had a terrific career. She's got a great gift. And
    I am honored to welcome her here tonight to begin this wonderful
    performance.
        CeCe, come on out.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:50 p.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House. In his remarks, he referred to musicians Phil Driscoll and Mickey
    Mangun. The performance was videotaped for later broadcast on PBS
    television.