Darren CrissPhoto: Bryan Dozier/Shutterstock
Darren Criss, Sheila E., Alfonso Ribeiro, Sister Sledge, Chloe Flower & More Talk A Capitol Fourth, Fourth of July on Pop Culture Weekly with Kyle McMahon
There's a brand new episode of Pop Culture Weekly that just dropped and it's a captivating episode that brings listeners live to the West Lawn of the United States Capitol for an insider's view of the star-studded A Capitol Fourth 2024 celebration. Hosted by me, Kyle McMahon, the episode is jam-packed with exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and heartwarming moments from some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports.
The episode kicks off with a mesmerizing conversation with Loren Allred, the renowned voice behind "Never Enough" from The Greatest Showman. Lauren shared her experience performing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" for the Fourth of July celebration, calling it a song filled with hope. "It's just a privilege to be here and perform that song," she said. Lauren also teased her upcoming collaborations with musical legends David Foster and Andrea Bocelli, expressing her excitement about singing in Hyde Park, London.
Next, pianist Chloe Flower discussed her love for high fashion and how it complements her music. "My music doesn't have lyrics, so the fashion sometimes helps express the song and the mood," she explained. Chloe also revealed her family's tradition of watching A Capitol Fourth at home, adding a personal touch to her performance this year.
Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson East brought a different kind of energy, likening the thrill of participating in the Fourth of July festivities to competing in the Olympics. "It feels like I'm competing again and wearing the red, white and blue," she shared. Shawn also hinted at her upcoming plans to support Team USA in Paris.
Sister Sledge featuring Sledgendary added their unique flair, sharing the joys and challenges of performing beloved American classics while navigating family dynamics on stage. "It feels like home," they said, reflecting on the significance of performing at such a monumental event with your own family members.
Photo: PBS / Capitol Concerts
The episode wouldn't be complete without insights from the charming host Alfonso Ribeiro, who shared his love for traveling across America in his RV and his passion for golf. Alfonso emphasized the unifying spirit of the Fourth of July, saying, "This holiday is about coming together, being together, setting aside our differences and loving one another."
Iconic musician Sheila E. also joined the conversation, reflecting on her excitement for performing on A Capitol Fourth on the Fourth of July and her recent salsa album. She highlighted the passion and community embedded in salsa music and hinted at more exciting projects on the horizon. "This is such a blessing to be here," she said, expressing her gratitude for being part of the celebration.
Adding to the excitement, Darren Criss shared his thoughts on performing at the A Capitol Fourth. "It's an honor to be part of a celebration that brings the entire nation together. Music has a way of connecting us all, no matter where we come from," he said, highlighting the unifying power of music.
The episode wraps up with a behind-the-scenes look at "A Capitol Fourth 2024," celebrating the phenomenal work by Capital Concerts. I had a chance to express my honor and excitement to be part of this amazing event, as it's such a joy to bring these great interviews to listeners.
A Capitol Fourth 2024 will air live at 8pm EST / 7 CST on PBS, the PBS website, as well as Facebook and YouTube. The special will remain on demand on YouTube, Facebook, and the PBS site.
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Check out Kyle McMahon and subscribe to the Pop Culture Weekly podcast. You can follow him on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram and check out his official Amazon Store.