Partisanship aside, January 20th is a special day for anyone living in the United States, and it’s a symbol of how far we’ve come in fifty years, and especially, how far we’ve come in a hundred and fifty years. On January 20th, Barack Obama will be sworn in as the forty-fourth President of the United States, and it’s nice to know a fellow pioneer will be beside him.

According to Billboard, the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin will perform at the inauguration. It’s unclear what exactly Aretha will sing, but she’ll be joined by an all-star lineup of classical talent who will lend their talents to a new John Williams composition. Sweet.

Yes, I’m sure this extravaganza will be televised somewhere; so, bust out your Tivos.