Capital's tribute show on song
Tens of thousands turned out on Sunday to support America's second major tribute concert in two days. They generated about $2m (£1.39m) through the sale of more than 46,000 tickets for a show in Washington DC intended to raise morale rather than money. Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, P Diddy, Aerosmith, Bette Midler, Destiny's Child and 'N Sync were among the stars taking part. The Backstreet Boys - who lost a crew member in the 11 September attacks - kicked off the eight-hour show at Washington DC's RFK Stadium with a rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. "We can't let them defeat us," band member Kevin Richardson told the crowd. "We have to get up, get out and live our lives every day."
The performing legend segued from Sex Machine to God Bless America for a routine in which the audience sang along and waved small American flags. On Saturday, Sir Paul McCartney led an array of rock's biggest names in a charity show at New York's Madison Square Garden, which raised $14m (£9m), after saying he "had to do something" following 11 September. The highest ticket price for the Washington show was set at $75 (£52). In contrast, McCartney's New York show charged up to $2,000 (£1,400) per ticket for 14,000 seats. The remaining 6,000 tickets were given free to the city's police officers, firefighters and rescue workers.
McCartney, who organised the event in less than five weeks, debuted a song called Freedom, which he had written following the attacks. The line-up also included Mick Jagger, David Bowie, Billy Joel, Destiny's Child, James Taylor and Jon Bon Jovi, while other bands, including Irish rock group U2, sent recorded messages of support. Billy Joel got an especially rapturous response when he sang New York State of Mind.
Meanwhile each of the Washington acts - who all donated their time - performed 20-minute sets. The event suffered a blow when Ricky Martin, Mick Jagger and rock band Kiss pulled out. Live entertainment company Clear Channel described it as a "record-setter" because it had been organised in just two-and-a-half weeks.
And elsewhere in the US, country music stars Tim McGraw, Lee Ann Womack, Hank Williams Jr and Trisha Yearwood were among those who played in another benefit show on Sunday, this time in Nashville, Tennessee. "Let freedom ring", Martina McBride sang in the opening song. Also on the lineup for the show were Alan Jackson, George Jones, Lonestar, Keith Urban, Sara Evans, Diamond Rio and Montgomery Gentry. Nashville proceeds will go to the Salvation Army and for financial help for families affected by the 11 September attacks. (BBC News)
|
