What Song Did Obama Sing At The Eulogy

Imagine the emotional moment when President Obama delivered a powerful eulogy and sang a meaningful hymn. In this blog post, we will delve into the song he chose to sing and its significance, as well as the impact it had on those who heard it.

Obama's Eulogy for Reverend Clementa Pinckney

In 2015, President Barack Obama was called upon to deliver a eulogy for Reverend Clementa Pinckney, a South Carolina State Senator, and pastor who was tragically killed in a mass shooting at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston.

During the service, President Obama not only honored Reverend Pinckney's life and legacy but also addressed larger issues of race, violence, and the need for change in America.

The Song: "Amazing Grace"

As he reached the end of his eulogy, President Obama surprised everyone in attendance by breaking into song. He chose to sing the well-known hymn "Amazing Grace," a powerful and emotional choice that resonated with the mourners and those watching from afar. The song features lyrics written by John Newton, a former English slave trader who had a profound religious conversion and became an abolitionist.

"Amazing Grace" has long been associated with African-American history and the civil rights movement in the United States. For President Obama to choose this song for his eulogy was both a tribute to Reverend Pinckney and a reminder of the continued struggle for equality and justice in America.

Why "Amazing Grace" was the Perfect Choice

• Its historical significance in African-American culture and the fight for civil rights made it a deeply relevant and emotional choice.
• The lyrics speak to forgiveness, redemption, and the power of grace, themes that resonated with those who were grieving.
• As a hymn, "Amazing Grace" was familiar and comforting to many in attendance, providing a sense of unity and shared experience during a time of great sadness.

The Impact of Obama's Song on Those Who Heard It

President Obama's impromptu performance of "Amazing Grace" during his eulogy was a profoundly moving moment that touched the hearts of millions. As he sang, the congregation joined in, creating a powerful and goosebump-inducing display of unity, grief, and hope.

The moment quickly gained widespread attention, with news outlets and social media platforms amplifying the video of Obama's singing. Many people found solace and inspiration in the president's heartfelt tribute to Reverend Pinckney and the poignant reminder of the work that still needs to be done to combat racism and injustice in America.

What Song Did Obama Sing At The Eulogy Example:

Here is an excerpt from President Obama's eulogy, just before he began singing "Amazing Grace":

"As a nation, out of this terrible tragedy, God has visited grace upon us. For he has allowed us to see where we’ve been blind. He’s given us the chance, where we’ve been lost, to find our best selves."

And then, with emotion clearly present in his voice, President Obama began to sing:

"Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, but now I see."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which song did President Obama sing during a eulogy?

President Barack Obama notably sang "Amazing Grace" during the eulogy for Reverend Clementa Pinckney, who was one of the victims of the Charleston church shooting in 2015.

When did Obama sing "Amazing Grace" during the eulogy?

President Obama sang "Amazing Grace" on June 26, 2015, during the eulogy for the late Reverend Clementa Pinckney.

Why did Obama choose to sing "Amazing Grace" at the eulogy?

Obama chose to sing "Amazing Grace" as a way to honor the victims and to reflect the grace that the families of the victims showed in forgiving the shooter. The song also served to unite those mourning and to bring a sense of solace and solidarity.

Did President Obama sing the entire song?

No, President Obama sang just the first verse of "Amazing Grace" before the congregation joined in.

Was Obama’s singing of "Amazing Grace" planned?

It was not pre-planned. President Obama's decision to sing "Amazing Grace" was a spontaneous moment during the eulogy and took many attendees by surprise.

What was the reaction of the congregation when Obama started singing?

The congregation was initially surprised, but they were visibly moved and soon joined in singing, creating a powerful and emotional moment.

What is the significance of the song "Amazing Grace"?

"Amazing Grace" is a Christian hymn published in 1779 with words written by the English poet and Anglican clergyman John Newton. It speaks about redemption and forgiveness and is a song that has historically provided comfort in times of sorrow and loss.

Has President Obama sung in public before?

Yes, President Obama had sung in public on a few occasions prior to this event, showcasing his vocal abilities informally.

Where was Reverend Clementa Pinckney’s eulogy held?

The eulogy for Reverend Clementa Pinckney was held at the TD Arena at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina.

What was the context surrounding the Charleston church shooting?

The Charleston church shooting was a hate crime that took place on June 17, 2015, at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Nine African American church members, including Reverend Clementa Pinckney, were killed by a white supremacist during their Bible study.

What was the purpose of President Obama’s eulogy for Reverend Pinckney?

President Obama delivered the eulogy to help the nation mourn the loss of Reverend Pinckney and the other eight victims, to speak against racial violence, and to address broader issues of race relations and gun control in America.

Did the President’s singing receive media attention?

Yes, President Obama's singing garnered significant media attention and became a highly discussed and memorable moment of his presidency.

What other topics did Obama address in his eulogy for Reverend Pinckney?

Besides paying tribute to the victims, President Obama discussed the state of race relations in the US, the progress made, the need for further action regarding racial equality, and the importance of national dialogue on issues of race and justice.

Did any other notable figures attend the eulogy service?

Yes, several notable figures attended the service, including Vice President Joe Biden, First Lady Michelle Obama, and other high-ranking officials and personalities.

How did the families of the victims respond to President Obama’s eulogy?

The families of the victims expressed appreciation for President Obama’s heartfelt words and found comfort in his singing of "Amazing Grace," as it captured their spirit of forgiveness and hope.

How did President Obama's rendition of "Amazing Grace" impact the national conversation on race?

President Obama's rendition of "Amazing Grace" helped to catalyze a national conversation on race, emphasizing the need for unity, understanding, and love across different communities.

Was the singing of "Amazing Grace" President Obama’s closing statement at the eulogy?

No, President Obama continued to speak after singing "Amazing Grace," but the hymn was one of the defining moments of his eulogy and is often remembered as a poignant capstone to his address.

How have President Obama's actions at the eulogy been historically perceived?

President Obama's actions during the eulogy are widely viewed as an authentic demonstration of leadership and empathy. His choice to sing "Amazing Grace" is remembered as a moment of unity during a time of national grief.

Did singing the song have any impact on Obama's policies or initiatives?

The eulogy and Obama's rendition of "Amazing Grace" emphasized the significance of the moment and contributed to the ongoing dialogues about Obama's policies and initiatives on racial justice and gun control.

Is there a recording of Obama singing "Amazing Grace"?

Yes, the moment was recorded and is available through various media outlets and online platforms, allowing people to witness this historic moment in American political and social history.

How did international media react to Obama singing at the eulogy?

International media covered the moment as a powerful and emotional homage to the victims of the Charleston church shooting, highlighting its significance in the context of U.S. racial dynamics and as a testament to Obama's character.

Has "Amazing Grace" been sung at other significant events in American history?

Yes, "Amazing Grace" is a song that has been used in a multitude of significant events and memorials throughout American history due to its deep emotional resonance and themes of hope and redemption.

The moment when President Obama sang "Amazing Grace" during his eulogy for Reverend Clementa Pinckney is an unforgettable example of the power of music to heal, unite, and inspire. As you craft your own eulogy, consider how a well-chosen song or hymn might help you convey your feelings, honour your loved one, and provide comfort to those in attendance. For more guidance on writing eulogies and selecting the perfect music for a memorial service, explore the resources available at Eulogy Assistant. And if you found this article moving or insightful, please consider sharing it with others who might benefit from its message.