Country Music Hall of Famer Charley Pride performed at the 2013 Black Tie & Boots Inaugural Ball held at the Gaylord National Resort in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 19. Sponsored by the Texas State Society of Washington, D.C., the Black Tie & Boots Inaugural Ball is one of the largest events taking place during the Inaugural festivities. It drew more than 15,000 guests and featured a number of other performers including Radney Foster and Asleep At The Wheel.
“I am pleased and honored to be a part of this event that celebrates President Obama and the start of his second term in office. It’s truly wonderful to be asked to perform,” said Pride. “The Texas State Society knows how to throw a great party, so I’m looking forward to a very memorable evening.”
This marks Pride’s second time performing in Washington D.C. during an Inauguration-related event. Pride performed during a Capital Centre gala celebrating President Ronald Reagan’s Inauguration on January 20, 1981.
Pride wrapped up 2012 with a number of recognitions and achievements. In addition to his tours of Ireland and the United Kingdom, he was inducted into the IEBA (International Entertainment Buyers Association) Hall of Fame.
And in October 2012, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture honored Pride during an event in Dallas, Texas. Pride has donated many items to the museum’s collection of historical artifacts including his 1971 CMA Award for ‘Country Male Vocalist of the Year’; his 1972 ‘Best Sacred Performance’ Grammy Award (for his recently reissued Did You Think To Pray album); a Fender guitar and case from his early years as a professional performer; a bat and glove from his baseball career; letters from Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon; and a collection of vintage clothing that includes tour outfits, suits, sweaters, USO jackets and a Texas Rangers uniform. Many of these relics are expected to be included as part of the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s permanent collection when it opens in 2015 on the National Mall in Washington D.C.
With shows already performed in Grant, Oklahoma, and Lincoln City, Oregon, Pride began 2013 with a bang and plans to keep the tour trail hot with a May 2013 swing through Canada. Shortly after the Inaugural Ball, Pride will be heading to Arizona to continue his annual tradition of working out with the Texas Rangers during spring training.
