Who is Lee Greenwood? Meet the country music star performing at Trump’s inauguration
Share:
LEE Greenwood is an American singer-songwriter who has won multiple awards throughout his career.
He is set to perform at Donald Trump’s Presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025. Here’s what we know about him.
Who is Lee Greenwood?
Melvin ‘Lee’ Greenwood was born on October 27, 1942 in South Gate, California.
He is best known for his song “God Bless the USA”, which became popular with members of the Republican Party after it’s release in 1984.
The song was used during a promotional film for Ronald Reagan’s presidency in 1984, and was performed by Greenwood at rallies in 1988 for Republican nominee, George H.W. Bush, who would go on to win the election.
It has been used as Donald Trump’s campaign rally introduction track in 2016, 2020 and 2024.
Greenwood spoke of his pride to have been asked to perform for the president at his inaguaration.
He said to USA Today: “I am humbled and honored to be asked to perform for our 47th President Donald J. Trump during his inaugural events.
“The President has been a friend of (wife Kimberly) and I’s for many years and this is one of the most historical moments in our lifetime. I look forward to celebrating this special day with proud Americans everywhere.”
Career highlights
Greenwood won a Grammy in 1984 for best best male country vocal performance, receiving the award for his song “I.O.U.”
Lee has been nominated for a total of four Grammy awards, with his last nomination coming in 1992 for his track Hopelessly Yours.
He has also amassed seven number ones on Billboard magazine’s Hot Country Songs chart.
Personal life
Lee has been married five times, the first came when he eloped to Reno with Edna Greenwood in 1960.
Lee and Edna married on two occasions, divorcing and remarrying before separating for a final time.
He was also married to Melanie Cronk and Roberta Taylor.
He is now married to former Miss Tennessee USA Kimberly Payne, who is 25 years younger than him.
Together Lee and Kimberly have two sons named Dalton and Parker. Lee has six children overall, with the other four coming from his earlier marriages.
Who else is performing at Donald Trump’s inauguration?
A host of huge names have agreed to perform at Donald Trump’s presidential inaguaration.
Country singer Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful” at the ceremony.
Also joining the line-up is rap legend Snoop Dogg, country star Billy Ray Cyrus, Kid Rock and The Village People.
The Village People’s 1978 hit “Y.M.C.A.” is a favourite of Trump’s, and has become a staple of his campaign events.
Opera singer Christopher Macchio will perform the national anthem at the end of the ceremony.
