Veteran CBS Radio White House correspondent Mark Knoller reports that President Obama is relaxing more than the dress code at the presidential mansion. Pomp is giving way to piano-bar pop: On Day One of his presidency, everywhere Mr. Obama went they played "Hail to the Chief" for him – but not since. In fact the U.S. Marine Band's duties at the White House over the last 10 days appear to have been dramatically downsized.
Instead of the usual contingent of trumpets, tubas and drums, a single piano player now provides musical interludes before and after the president's appearance.
And the tunes have little connection to the military marching music of John Phillips Souza [sic] that is the usual accompaniment to presidential appearances. These days the pianist's repertoire includes Cole Porter's "Night and Day" and Sting’s "Desert Rose."
"He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president.
To many Americans, this excessive informality suggests a real distaste for "official" or "patriotic" music, not to mention the Marine band that plays it.
This issue is light enough that Matt Lauer could have asked about it yesterday during his fluffy pre-Super Bowl interview. Will the rest of the media inquire about this musical flag-pin controversy?
At this rate, why doesn't he just put his i-Pod in a speaker and hit "Shuffle"?
UPDATE: Apparently, the makers of Barack-in-a-Box are stuck with toys that crank "Hail to the Chief." (There's a video if you click on Hillary-in-a-Box.)
—Tim Graham is Director of Media Analysis at the Media Research Center.
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
"He's not a 'Pomp and
February 2, 2009 - 11:32 ET by Jack BauerMore a "Pimp My Ride" kinda guy?
Why not ditch that 'old
February 2, 2009 - 11:42 ET by SpaceManSpiffWhy not ditch that 'old white guy on the dollar bill' music? Obama's too cool for that junk, bro. He's got a fly new Cadillac limo, complete with a gun packin' posse, his picture plastered everywhere, songs and poetry written in his honor. If anyone can remake the image of this nation, He's the man.
Of course, we can tell the difference between trick photography and the genuine article.
Pimp my Ride seems right
February 3, 2009 - 10:16 ET by 10ksnookerAfter all we knew Obama was nothing more than a street walker before.
Pretty soon we will have the BeeGees and their song "Jive TAlking" as the official administration theme song.
It's what happens when you bring Kenya class to modern society.
Stay tuned for "F— tha
February 2, 2009 - 11:36 ET by SickofLibsStay tuned for "F— tha Police Interlude in G Minor."
Ha Ha Ha..!
February 2, 2009 - 11:45 ET by Sergeant ROCKWord!
Bolton/KEYES 2012
Why no shuffle?
February 2, 2009 - 11:37 ET by Defector01Don't want the Internationale or the Soviet Anthem to come out by mistake lol
I have only ever made one prayer to God, a very short one: O Lord, make my enemies ridiculous. And God granted it - Voltaire
He is making everything
February 2, 2009 - 11:44 ET by thebutlerdiditinformal about the job. No jacket, no tie, no formal band entrance. It is offensive. This is the most powerful position in the world, and he wants to downplay its importance? I guess he can just have Jay-Z and the guys over to play tunes and shoot hoops. Obama, get your dignity back! It is fading on you, already! Tacky, tacky.
Bringing the government in to run Wall Street is like saying, "Dad burned the dinner, let's get the dog to cook." PJ O'Rourke
tbdi
February 2, 2009 - 12:00 ET by BlondeTacky. Perfect description.
My mom had a good friend from West Virginia....who said the word tacky something like taaaeeeky. Not quite it, but you catch my meaning. That's what I heard in my mind's eye (if I may mix metaphors) when I read your comment, LOL. Something about these old southern women, and their straightforward way of saying stuff.
Hey, our new
February 2, 2009 - 12:04 ET by motherbeltHey, our new Prez......that's the way he rolls!!
Maybe next he'll let the press corps yell out Yo, Prez! instead of Mr. President.
Informal -- because he
February 2, 2009 - 12:35 ET by ThisnThatInformal -- because he doesn't really understand the job of President.
Other "formalities" to be abandoned: Treaties (he now wants informal talks with any nation); Protecting the U.S. (let's dispense with the Defense budget); and The rule of law (any tax cheat is ok with him -- just sign them up for the cabinet). This man is a total incompetant fool -- but right in line with Democrats in general who think that our laws and customs were put together by tyrants and all need to be completely changed -- because only they know better.
___________________________________
The challenge is to follow a consistent plan despite inconsistent prices - Sarah Palin, State of the State of Alaska speech
You cant get something back
February 2, 2009 - 13:43 ET by misterbee241You cant get something back you've never had.
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
You left out not showing up
February 2, 2009 - 14:00 ET by SickofLibsYou left out not showing up for work until 9 a.m.
Probably just an old habit from those community organizer days.
"Barry, you better get outta bed, and right now! You have a job, mister!"
Very troubling.
February 2, 2009 - 14:06 ET by mizflame98Remember when Obama said that a president has to be able to do more than one thing at the same time? For someone who took over the responsibility of dealing with a recession, 3 wars (including the war on terror), a big natural disaster in the midwest, etc. he seems far too laid back right now. He also seems to be focused on only 1 thing instead of multiple things at a time.
Just an observation folks.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Miz, I do remember. Of
February 2, 2009 - 14:46 ET by SickofLibsMiz, I do remember. Of course Bush couldn't focus on more than one thing at a time, at least according to Obama and the MSM.
If I have problems/situations with my job, I work 18 hours a day if I have to. It is simply unfathomable to me that even in his first couple weeks on the job with all that's going on he has the balls to even be seen ANYWHERE NEAR an exercise room. And the MSM is telling us this is cool, a 9 a.m. start is fine.
tbdi, remember he is "the one". Or so say his ...
February 2, 2009 - 16:41 ET by SentryDantbdi, remember he is "the one" or so say his minions. He is the "messiah", again, so say his minions. He can do anything he pleases, including making the Presidency look like it is unimportant. He is the king of the united states. What kind of music will he have played when a visiting head of state comes here.
I could go on, but what would be the use. Things aren't going to get better anytime soon. God help us.
Remember folks, Freedom isn't Free. It was bought with the blood and sacrifice of the men and women who are serving and who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
For those who fought for it, Freedom has a flavor that the protected will never know.
How's this little tune
February 2, 2009 - 17:10 ET by mizflame98He is the king of the united states. What kind of music will he have played when a visiting head of state comes here.
He can always greet them with this song with Michelle on backup:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cdk1gwWH-Cg
He'll need to brush up on his dance moves with Ellen before he can really turn it out.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
In 13 days
February 2, 2009 - 11:46 ET by KateinCOIn 13 days, I think PBO has done very well at making a mockery out of the Presidency. I'm afraid to think of what's next.
That's nice. I suppose he
February 2, 2009 - 11:51 ET by EugeniaThat's nice. I suppose he wears flip flops in the oval office too.
Nice way to demean, degrade, and dispose of tradition
of holding the office in high esteem. But then that's what
Dems do. Clinton?
I had to do a double-take.
February 2, 2009 - 11:53 ET by mizflame98I'm finding more and more reasons to dislike Obama. Getting rid of Hail To The Chief for THIS??? Why don't he get it over with and wipe his ass with the American Flag and start the fireplace with the US Constitution. He's a new and hip guy and American tradition means nothing to him. Maybe he loves the Sting song because it reminds him of on of the prettiest sounds on Earth.
If you're curious about the prettiest sound per Obama, here it is.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Hail to the Chief out, muslim soundtrack in
February 2, 2009 - 14:07 ET by SickofLibsThis should be terrifying to any American with a brain stem.
I thought we elected an
February 2, 2009 - 11:53 ET by fitzfongI thought we elected an empty suit as President of the United States. I was wrong. Turns out we elected Paris Hilton.
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
Not Paris Hilton..
February 2, 2009 - 11:57 ET by Sergeant ROCK.. The votes are in and Obama is the next American Idol!
Bolton/KEYES 2012
Paris Obama, or Barack Hilton?
February 2, 2009 - 13:47 ET by misterbee241I've said since Obama first surfaced - he's the Paris Hilton of politics, famous for being famous. Now, God help us, he's the president.
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
Don't do this.
February 2, 2009 - 11:54 ET by dsimmsI am no fan of Obama's policies. But, I believe that it is a huge mistake to go after him for being informal. By doing this, you are playing directly into the stereotype that conservatives are stuffy, rigid, and grumpy people who long for the fabricated world of "Leave It To Beaver."
There are certainly things about the Obama administration that can be critiqued. Focus your energies on making logical arguments about issues of substance. Going after his relaxed style is, in my opinion, a bad approach.
Also, the jokes about Obama being a fan of "Pimp My Ride" are just uncalled for. Leave those sort of childish antics for the Left. Be better than that.
I disagree. Those who are
February 2, 2009 - 11:57 ET by Matthew BalanI disagree. Those who are going to think of that stereotype aren't likely to vote for conservatives anyway.
Dissin' the Beav..
February 2, 2009 - 12:02 ET by Sergeant ROCKYou are correct. And what's wrong with Leave it to Beaver? I'd rather have a culture like that than what we have today.
Bolton/KEYES 2012
When Ward spoke, the boys
February 2, 2009 - 14:12 ET by SickofLibsWhen Ward spoke, the boys replied 'Yes, Sir.'
Even in private, they never said or even implied Dad was a jerk or a tyrant.
You do realize of course
February 2, 2009 - 16:19 ET by mandrakeYou do realize of course that Ward was a fictional character...I lived through the 50's and never met any family even remotely like "Leave It To Beaver" ..pure fiction to appease the masses.
uh, yeah
February 2, 2009 - 17:11 ET by SickofLibsI can tell you firsthand I knew at least two fullblown Ward types in the 60s - and those were the kids' houses nobody ever wanted to go to unless Dad was outta town on a business trip.
Wrong
February 2, 2009 - 12:03 ET by dsimmsNegative, ghostrider. I vote for Conservatives, and this is exactly the message I am getting when I see these types of arguments made.
However, my main point is the focus of the argument. Don't go after the guy's style. Go after his substance.
as a Marine (former) this
February 2, 2009 - 12:12 ET by seaniepas a Marine (former) this pisses me off
I was infantry and laughed at the band, but still . . . all the slaps at the military that this jackball has taken - I am almost too pissed off for words about this
I will admit that he is fundamentally changing America though
Faux-Conservative?
February 2, 2009 - 12:19 ET by Sergeant ROCKSo, your point is to go after conservatives over Obama's lack of respect for traditions rather than you, yourself going after his substance?
Wouldn't that be better use of your time??
Bolton/KEYES 2012
I also disagree
February 2, 2009 - 12:55 ET by ThisnThatBut, I believe that it is a huge mistake to go after him for being informal
Everything has a line which you should not cross. This line is defined by history, present circumstances, responsibility, the person's role, and the real and perceived reactions to your action. As President, you have to understand that -- and if you don't understand that, then you're going to invite a whole bunch of misperceptions and reactions that you're going to be spending a lot of energy on trying to get over. This energy would be better spent on solving real problems. But Obama doesn't understand -- or better yet, doesn't believe -- this.
It's like the 3-year old. His mother says "Don't touch the stove -- it's hot, and you'll burn your hand". Rather than believing this, the 3-year old goes ahead and burns his hand. Now, he has to suffer the consequences -- time spent healing, and restrictions on going out and playing while he is healing.
Apparantly, Obama has to learn the same way. Presidential traditions say "Don't do this -- you'll suffer the consequences". But Obama -- the man-child -- does it anyway. Unfortunately, the country will suffer while he is learning. And this is all being done to satisfy his eqo and immaturity: "I want to do it my way -- waaaaahhhhh"!
___________________________________
The challenge is to follow a consistent plan despite inconsistent prices - Sarah Palin, State of the State of Alaska speech
correctimundo
February 2, 2009 - 14:22 ET by SickofLibsHe is pissing on 200+ years of tradition and the gravitas of the Office in just his first few weeks.
He's just borrowing the office, he's got no right to inflict his own personal 'informal' spin on it. If wants to go to the Bada Bing with a fistful of singles on his personal time, let him.
And what is wrong
February 2, 2009 - 12:02 ET by mizflame98...with showing some outrage over dismissing some of the traditions of this nation and the office he holds? He is the leader of the free world. He needs to learn how to present himself. His non-shalont behavior shows the rest of the world that he doesn't take his office seriously. I know of no country who has a leader that comes off as so laid back with regards to running a nation.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Hmm...
February 2, 2009 - 12:08 ET by dsimmsDo you actually believe that he doesn't take his office seriously?
Then maybe he should act
February 2, 2009 - 12:16 ET by motherbeltThen maybe he should act like it.
There is such a thing as decorum, and the White House is a long way from the South Side of Chicago. You adapt your behavior to the circumstances.
This is the same principle behind school uniforms. When kids are dressed nicely, they act differently. If this is going to be the
Casual Friday Presidency, he will find that people respond to him in kind. Then he will have a fit at not being shown the proper "respect."
Oh...
February 2, 2009 - 12:30 ET by mizflame98he takes the office seriously enough. Enough to further his own communist ideas. He's just picking up the torch from the previous communists before him and is going on with the game plan.
31. Belittle all forms of American culture and discourage the teaching of American history on the ground that it was only a minor part of the "big picture." Give more emphasis to Russian history since the Communists took over.
Current Communist Goals EXTENSION OF REMARKS OF HON. A. S. HERLONG, JR. OF FLORIDA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, January 10, 1963http://www.nationmakers.com/com_goals.htm
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Uh, no. It's about time
February 2, 2009 - 12:08 ET by fitzfongUh, no. It's about time we stopped worrying about how we're going to be "stereotyped" by the left. That's a given. It is perfectly reasonable to shed light on the fact that not only is Obama in over his head when it comes to matters of policy, but he and those he represents are nothing but frivolous star chasers. When we are finished paying the price for having Hollywood dictate national policy, the adults of this world will have to come in and clean up the mess these slackers have created. Obama has cheapened the Office of President of the United States, and these efforts to "loosen up" are symbolic of that decay.
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
Also, the jokes about Obama
February 2, 2009 - 12:18 ET by motherbeltAlso, the jokes about Obama being a fan of "Pimp My Ride" are just uncalled for.
Not necessarily.
He is the one who used the If you feelin' like a pimp, go and brush your shoulders off during a speech
and got hoots and hollers from the crowd, who obviously got the hip-hop message.
And this is now the second thread today that I have to get out of before my head explodes.
You're right dsimms
February 2, 2009 - 12:14 ET by cocodrieThe next formal dinner I attend I'm wearing shorts and tennis shoes. My attire for church will be sweat pants and tee shirts. I'm tired of being stereotyped as a stuffed shirt.
Jesus Loves You
Attire for State visits
February 2, 2009 - 12:21 ET by Sergeant ROCKThat will do just fine when the Queen of England or the Pope stops by for a visit!
Bolton/KEYES 2012
It is not his
February 2, 2009 - 12:17 ET by jed58It is not his house, it is not his office, it is not his anything. After God it all belongs to the citizens of the U.S.....hey President Lepetomane, act like it!
Actually, I feel this does
February 2, 2009 - 12:30 ET by MichelleCActually, I feel this does reflect on his attitudes, which directly affect his policy-making decisions. If he doesn't respect his country enough to follow its traditions, then why should other world leaders and/or world despots have any respect for our country either?
To me, it's disrespectful of the history of our country and that's something that ALL Americans should be proud of, not thought of as "stuffy."
Republicans believe every day is the 4th of July. Democrats believe every day is April 15th ~ Ronald Reagan
By doing this, you are
February 2, 2009 - 13:49 ET by misterbee241So what?
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
Hey, I love informality.
February 2, 2009 - 13:55 ET by lotrHey, I love informality. I prefer rock and roll to Sousa marches. I prefer shorts, denim and t-shirts to suits and ties. But there is a time and place for everything, and sorry, executing the office of President is not one of those times to kick back, throw your shoes off and let your hair down.
But none of us here should be surprised by any of this. One of the doctrines of liberalism is to dispense with formality and hierarchy. When was the last time any of you have seen a liberal college professor, a professional, mind you, wear a tie and jacket into the classroom? I've seen shorts and birkenstocks (and it ain't pretty). The relationship is blurred, as the professor seeks to be our "buddy," when in fact, he should not be, for this is to remove objectivity.
To put in the words of Mr. Obama: "I won." Mr. McCain would've humbly honored the tradition, but alas.
Sorry, but the loss of the distinction between formal and informal is one of the scourges of new-liberalism, and there's nothing "stuffy" about asserting this.
And one by one dropped the revellers in the blood-bedewed halls of their revel, and died each in the despairing posture of his fall. -- Edgar Allan Poe
There are those who will say
February 2, 2009 - 14:34 ET by SickofLibsThere are those who will say that he's just ratcheting it down, he doesn't think he needs all the honorifics and majesty that come with the job, he just wants to be a regular guy...
THEN WHY DID HE NEVER, NOT ONCE, ever say anything to any drooling MSM sycophant or press outlet to knock it off or even tone it down with all the Messiah/Lightworker/Etc/Etc crap?
So it's OK with him if we treat him as the world's Messiah, but not the US President that, by anyone's definition, comes with certain traditions and expectation of proper behavior.
There is a reason
February 2, 2009 - 12:06 ET by traditionalistwhy they are called traditions. Of course I would expect someone that can not properly render honors to their troops to do away with the USMC band honors. I can not quite seem to shake the feeling that this dem holds the same attitudes toward to the military that the last dem held. Can you say 12% cut in the military budget? Is the discarding of the traditional rendering of honors for the office part of this cut? What a bill of goods we bought.
20 Jan 09: The day the Republic died
Case in point.
February 2, 2009 - 12:14 ET by dsimmsThis is why so many Conservatives are no better than the Liberals that they love to hate. I quote:
"20 Jan 09: The day the Republic died"
Seriously? The Republic died? A bit hyperbolic, don't you think? This is the kind of thing that filled The Huffington Post for the last 8 years. Don't sink to that level.
If
February 2, 2009 - 12:25 ET by traditionalistyou dont like the tags, feel free to not read them. It is my OPINION that my statement is accurate. And I earned the right to express that opinion. In two weeks time the Republic has gone from something to be aspired to, respected, and yes feared. The usurper has with his actions brought scorn and the belief that we are weak.
20 Jan 09: The day the Republic died
Perhaps. But it is an apt response
February 2, 2009 - 14:25 ET by lotrto the truly offensive bumper sticker (we ain't talking a conservative blog tagline here -- we're talking about public streets, highways, parking lots, etc) that I've seen adorning cars for about 2 years now:
01.20.09 -- Bush's last day
And one by one dropped the revellers in the blood-bedewed halls of their revel, and died each in the despairing posture of his fall. -- Edgar Allan Poe
Dude, you're going down in
February 2, 2009 - 14:36 ET by SickofLibsDude, you're going down in flames here with this.
In case you haven't noticed.
I'm just rather amused
February 2, 2009 - 14:59 ET by traditionalistthat the source of dsimms pique is not my position on tradition but my tag.
20 Jan 09: The day the Republic died
position on tradition...
February 2, 2009 - 15:17 ET by SickofLibsor a jag on your tag?
20 Jan 09: The day the Republic died
I feel, somehow, more free now!
Maybe
February 2, 2009 - 21:33 ET by UpNorthhe can get Jay-Z and Kanye to be crew chiefs on Marine One. After all, wouldn't want those Marines in dress blues to be seen. I can see the military aides being shuttled to the back room, then out the back door. We'll let Michelle carry the codes, when she or Zero aren't running around turning the temp up.
Obama the Racist
February 2, 2009 - 12:12 ET by GothampcObama is a raaaaaaaaaaaaacist.
Doesn't he understand that the song "Night and Day" makes white people feel like second class citizens. Obviously by choosing the song, he's saying that Night (dark) comes first and that Day (light) is secondary.
(And for those of you with no sense of humor, I'm just goofing on how radical liberals think).
He likes it because
February 2, 2009 - 20:16 ET by SouthernRootsHere are some of the Lyrics:
I won't be wronged. I won't be insulted. I won't be laid a-hand on. I don't do these things to other people, and I require the same from them. - J.B. Books (John Wayne)
Or maybe he likes Night and
February 2, 2009 - 21:18 ET by mandrakeOr maybe he likes Night and Day because it has one of the coolest chord progressions to jam on in all of jazz. (I could play to that all night long).
Other cool progressions are..
All The Things You Are (J Kern)
The Man I Love (G Gershwin)
Oddly, the lyrics to the above songs could also be used to make fun of Obama..just sayin...:)
Next Obama will have his homeboyz
February 2, 2009 - 12:13 ET by OxyCon'lil Geezy and Jay-Z rappin' at official events. Of course, they'll be performing at the new "Black House" (their words, not mine).
Just like Carter.
February 2, 2009 - 12:21 ET by jarrett.edwardsDoes anyone remember the last President
that seemed to be obsessed about informality? It was sweater wearing
Jimmy Carter. I thought Obama would be the second coming of Carter
but he seems to be following his template to a tee, lets hope he
follows him in being a one term President. Bush not being a
particularly formal guy, though he did have respect for the office
and traditions. When Bush was informal the media painted him as an
ignorant rube, but Obama not being formal is cool.
→ Not Carter yet
February 2, 2009 - 12:31 ET by Cool ArrowHe still has to lick the boot of an Iranian Ayatollah to match Carter in milquetoastiness.
Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country - Khalil Gibran
I believe that Jimmy C also
February 2, 2009 - 13:16 ET by T-Bone MassI believe that Jimmy C also stopped using "hail to the chief", for all those who claimed this is JEC II, you are being proven correct.
unfortunately t-bone...
February 2, 2009 - 13:33 ET by clinging to my guns and my religion...i think he's going to make carter look like an amateur! you know, obama may not be a "pomp and circumstances kind of guy", but it's a pomp and circumstances kind of job. his actions are a slap in the faces of every american and certainly every member of our military! and to those who argue that there is no significance to this, it just proves his blatant lack of respect for america and everything that americans have held dear since the beginning of our great nation.
"When bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle." Edmund Burke
Email the White House with
February 2, 2009 - 12:30 ET by Jack BauerEmail the White House with your own musical repetoire ideas, here are my
MARINE BAND PLAY LIST SUGGESTIONS FOR PRESIDENT OBAMA
Hail to the Chief
February 2, 2009 - 21:34 ET by Sergeant ROCKYou forgot this classic.
Bolton/KEYES 2012
The New Hail To The Chief
February 2, 2009 - 23:07 ET by mizflame98Obama can have this song played at all functions.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Hail to the Chief
February 2, 2009 - 23:17 ET by Sergeant ROCKThat guy was on Neil Cavuto today. He does an Obama impression that's dead-on.
Bolton/KEYES 2012
I thought he was hillarious.
February 2, 2009 - 23:25 ET by mizflame98Although, thanks to his video I had to see the original one from Beyonce. Let's just say that the men will love that video.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
No Surprise
February 2, 2009 - 12:54 ET by cruiserFor three generations, baby boomers, their children, and grandchildren, the United States has followed the world of trendy. It's no surprise that proper respect for traditions and decorum is out. Like Clinton, I'm sure Obama has done a poll on this. He would show up in his underwear if it would register favorably with the above demographics. In the world of relative morality, political correctness, etc. Obama is the "man on a white horse". God help us all as we slide in to mediocrity.
Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read.------ Groucho Marx
If Obama has so little respect for the Office of the President
February 2, 2009 - 12:54 ET by katiejaneI figure that eliminates the need for the rest of us to respect it or him either.
At this point all Obama had going for him with a lot of voters was their respect for the Office. He's indicated that being POTUS is not a big deal so he should be open to being ragged on just like any other dufus politician.
I guess we should expect him to eliminate much of the other dignity and tradition associated with the Presidency. No more State dinners - just burgers and fries in the Rose Garden. When he reviews the troops maybe they'll just "fist bump" instead of saluting?
Sheesh - just another example of faux-manners. It is reasonable to criticize him on style as well as substance because he is lacking in both categories..
the next construction project at the white house
February 2, 2009 - 13:05 ET by larry on LIminerets attached to the east and west wings.it makes sense, he now makes reference to the citizens of the USA as,muslims christians, jews and non believers in that order. now that statement is defintely a first for a sitting president of the USA.
It's how it's done....
February 2, 2009 - 13:10 ET by graymarv81you erode the traditions bit by bit. Keep it small, so as to make those who complain look silly. Then, in just a little bit of time, you look back, it's a whole new landscape. Wake up America, this is who you voted for, and so far, he's following Alinsky's rules to the letter...
I'm surprised
February 2, 2009 - 13:45 ET by mizflame98That he didn't pick this version Hail To The Chief.
The alternative could be this ultra ghetto version.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Royalties?
February 2, 2009 - 13:28 ET by GothampcSo is President Obama (i.e. taxpayer) paying royalties on these songs? Or is the Porter estate and Sting allowing their music to be performed for free?
Does Nancy Wilson care?
http://www.gigwise.com/news/45865/Republican-Party-Slammed-For-Using-Hearts-Barracuda-Song
Yeah, let's continue to
February 2, 2009 - 13:39 ET by misterbee241Yeah, let's continue to tear down the classiness of the office of the POTUS a little further. I dont know why he isnt playing gangsta rap so he can come out struttin' to the beat. Wont be long he'll be showing up at press conferences in his gym clothes and bling.
"I dont need to read a newspaper to know the world's been shaved by a drunken barber."
Walter Brennan, The Colonel, Meet John Doe, 1941
It's so disrespectful to the
February 2, 2009 - 13:57 ET by justathotIt's so disrespectful to the office of the POTUS. Doesn't it make you want to pitch a couple of flipflops at him??
Super Bowl Parties, Pop music, casual dress
February 2, 2009 - 14:04 ET by Dee BunkWhat's next? Maybe he'll turn that redneck bowling alley into a stripper bar. I'm sure he's better with strippers than bowling.
It will make for some good manly comedy. He can't make fun of other people's bowling but he'll have some good comedy making fun of the strippers who aren't quite thin enough.
PrezBO is so Cool!
Another Democrat - another slap in the face of the military.
February 2, 2009 - 14:05 ET by JWFShould we expect more from a rank amateur?
First Marine Band Presidential Performances
1801
Since its founding in 1798, the Marine Band's primary mission has been to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. Whether performing for South Lawn arrival ceremonies, State Dinners, receptions, or accompanying famous entertainers, Marine Band musicians appear at the White House more than 300 times annually.
White House Debut
Every President of the United States except George Washington has heard the music of the Marine Band and all have expressed enthusiastic support for the band. The Marine Band made its White House debut on New Year’s Day 1801 at a reception given by President and Mrs. John Adams. Since that time, the Marine Band has furnished music for every Chief Executive at official functions at the White House and for other State occasions.
Inaugural Debut
On March 4, 1801, the Marine Band performed for Thomas Jefferson’s inaugural and has performed for every Presidential inaugural since that time. Jefferson has been referred to as the "godfather" of the Marine Band, and it was he who gave the band the title "The President’s Own."
July 4, 1801, marked the first Independence Day celebration in the "President’s House." This was the first time a body of troops was reviewed by the Commander in Chief at his residence in Washington. Margaret Baynard Smith, wife of the publisher of the National Intelligencer, wrote in a letter to her sister, "Martial music soon announced the approach of the Marine Corps of Captain Burrows who, in due military form, saluted the President, accompanied by the President’s March played by an excellent band attached to the corps."
A visitor at one of President Jefferson’s receptions remembered that "an exquisite band of music played at intervals martial, patriotic, and enlivening airs, which reverberated through the spacious dome." One of those "enlivening airs" was "To Anacreon in Heaven," first sung at the White House on July 4, 1806, by a "Mr. Cutting." Eight years later this well-known melody was given new words by Francis Scott Key and became very popular as "The Star-Spangled Banner."
First Inaugural Ball
In 1809, the Marine Band performed for the inaugural of James Madison and, that evening, its music opened the first Inaugural Ball. Music under the Madisons became a vital element of their hospitality. The Marine Band played frequently at various events as it did on the New Year’s Day in 1811 described by Catherine Mitchell: "When we reach’d the grand entrance the sound of sweet music entered our ears...Upon entering the spacious hall we beheld on one side a number of musicians seated round a table, on different instruments, playing enlivening airs for the entertainment of the company."
On Sept. 6, 1825, the Marine Band performed for a celebration honoring the birthday of the Marquis de Lafayette. President John Quincy Adams arose and proposed to him the first toast in the White House. President Adams was responsible for another major change in White House social customs when he brought dancing to the White House on Dec. 15, 1828, to music by the Marine Band.
"Hail to the Chief"
"Hail to the Chief," with its preceding fanfare known as "Ruffles and Flourishes," is traditionally played to announce the arrival of the President at State functions. Possibly derived from an old Gaelic air, "Hail to the Chief" was used in James Sanderson’s musical play of 1812, The Lady of the Lake. It appears in a gallant boating scene honoring the highland chieftain, Sir Roderick Dhu. The song was already very popular when the Marine Band played it from a barge for the opening of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal on July 4, 1828, in the presence of President John Quincy Adams.
President John Tyler is believed to be the first to use "Hail to the Chief" as the official Presidential honors. "Hail to the Chief" had been played in the White House under Presidents Jackson and Van Buren, but it did not become the official Presidential honors until First Lady Julia Tyler instructed the Marine Band to play it whenever the President made an official appearance. President Tyler also instituted weekly public concerts on the White House grounds, a tradition that continued on Saturday evenings from spring to fall until the administration of Herbert Hoover. In 1856 President Franklin Pierce approved legislation allowing the band extra pay for playing "on the grounds of the President and the Capitol."
For more information about “Hail to the Chief,” click here.
For more information about the Marine Band’s Presidential Performances, click here.
http://www.marineband.usmc.mil/learning_tools/discover_american_band_music/1801.htm
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars.
And to think I almost
February 2, 2009 - 14:32 ET by TexasteacherAnd to think I almost auditioned for a recent opening for the Marine Band. I count it a good thing I didn't. The Marine Band is the most prestigious band in the world and it's honor has been shat upon rather quickly by this president. 300+ years of musical tradition replaced by flash-in-the-pan crap from the savior's ipod. I am ashamed of how he is making a complete mockery of the office of President.
obama's notion of bi-partisanship is telling conservatives to shut up and do what he wants.
The dismantling of America continues
February 2, 2009 - 14:08 ET by katainkentand its almost as if no one seems to be noticing. Everyone here in my little lib-town is just scurrying around hoping to keep their job. What will America look like when people finally pull their heads out of their collective *****.
All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. -Edmund Burke
History has seen this once before.
February 2, 2009 - 14:17 ET by mizflame98The German people were tired of the political haggling in Berlin. They were tired of misery, tired of suffering, tired of weakness. These were desperate times and they were willing to listen to anyone, even Adolf Hitler.
http://www.historyplace.com/worldwar2/riseofhitler/begins.htm
Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
George Santayana
History..
February 2, 2009 - 21:29 ET by Sergeant ROCK.. has a way of repeating itself, doesn't it?
Bolton/KEYES 2012
Unfortunately
February 2, 2009 - 22:41 ET by mizflame98You're right.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
Clueless osama obama
February 2, 2009 - 14:11 ET by RD Kinghas no American history, traditions, ethics or values. He is what he is a Chicago muslim thug that as soon as he fell to his knees begging his radical muslim bros to take him back, they spit in his face and threw every pair of shoes they could put together in iran right back at him and all of his words and actions prove this.
→ Slap him Major
February 2, 2009 - 14:21 ET by Cool ArrowOnce again
"I don't want to answer that"
Put the needle on the record.
Put the needle on the record.
Put the needle on the record.
Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country - Khalil Gibran
Obama has changed Hail to
February 2, 2009 - 14:31 ET by eaglewingz08Obama has changed Hail to the Chief to Send in the Clowns (don't bother they're here).
LOL
February 2, 2009 - 17:12 ET by lotrAnd one by one dropped the revellers in the blood-bedewed halls of their revel, and died each in the despairing posture of his fall. -- Edgar Allan Poe
Mark my words....
February 2, 2009 - 15:54 ET by Amanda JusticeThe next thing coming are "Hip Hop Saturdays" at the White House. Jay-Z and Young Jeezy be strollin' past da Secret Service yellin' 'Yo man! Dat's MY man in da house!'
While a lot of Americans are now feeling more proud of their country, I am beginning to feel an astounding sense of shame for her. Not to mention just the Office of the President itself.
Am I the only one who felt a bit uneasy about the White House announcing Barack was going to have a Super Bowl watch party there last night? It's TOO 'comfortable' for me.
well, whaddya expect? The
February 2, 2009 - 17:08 ET by semolina_filcherwell, whaddya expect? The guy was never immersed in military history and traditions. He wants to be a Cole Porter guy or a sting-a-ling with the Arabic melody that accompanies "Desert Rose" (shades of his old Moslem days, I guess). Frankly, if I were playing in a military band, I'd be ashamed to play "Hail to the Chief" if I knew that Chief isn't what he is, if you know what I mean....
s_f... I know what you
February 2, 2009 - 17:16 ET by bigtimers_f...
I know what you mean...I feel the same way.
great point, s_f!
February 2, 2009 - 17:42 ET by clinging to my guns and my religionmaybe he's actually doing the marine band a favor. too bad the rest of have to be deprived of them, though. hearing them play "hail to the chief" has always been one of those things that gave me chills, just like the space shuttle going off or the scenes of troops who have been on deployment returning home. i think a lot of what i have held dear all my life is going by the wayside, and i am sad.......
"When bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle." Edmund Burke
money, hoes, cars and
February 2, 2009 - 18:09 ET by RR GOPmoney, hoes, cars and clothes, thats how all my ACORNs roll
blowing dro on 24's,
thats how all my organizas roll
money, hoes, cars and clothes, thats how all my ACORNs roll
blowing dro on 24's,
thats how all my organizas roll
[B.O.]
in a black armored limo with the roof all shut my secret service agents
looking at me to see if my eyes open cause I've been drankin, and
I've
been smokin and flying down PA Ave. but I'm focused its a GMC Topkick, I raise Caddies black leather seats,
as fresh
as Air Force One doing 'bout a hundred but the track still bumping number 8 on NWA straight out of Compton pull up at your
D.C. bureau sitting on 20 something and the dope boys, saying the kids running in the clicks start dealing and the broads start
choosing and the cars been parked but the rims keep moving
sign pictures by the hundred, to the youngins in the hood cause I
ain't Hollywood, I come from Indonesia I'm use to it, if your rear view shaking and your seats vibrating 24 inch jays got the
Prez's limo shaking
One of the 24% who thinks George W. Bush was a great President. One of the 89% who wants to bring back the stock and pillory.
Just like Carter
February 2, 2009 - 19:43 ET by Dont_Like_TheBluesI remember that Carter did something similar in his days in the White House. He portrayed himself as a just a regular guy (as opposed to a DC elite politician). On this regular guy approach, he stopped the various bands from playing Hail To The Chief or anything else at many domestic events (this historical tidbit suprised me since Carter had a U.S. Navy career).
In that respect, he's following in the steps of a one-term POTUS.
Bill Clinton.
February 2, 2009 - 21:26 ET by mizflame98Didn't he relax the use of the song as well? I thought I remember hearing about how G.W. Bush had it reinstated again.
"Not to be a republican at twenty is proof of want of heart; to be one at thirty is proof of want of head." - Francois Guisot
I'm beginning to believe he
February 2, 2009 - 23:24 ET by TN MomI'm beginning to believe he hates America.
Obama does not attend the Red, White & Blue Ball
uses "My fellow citizens" instead of 'My fellow Americans' during swooning-in ceremony
He has a funny-sounding unAmerican name
He was a church member for twenty years listen to anti-American sermons
Thanked the UN and not our BRAVE TROOPS when Iraq held their elections last week
Served on a board committee with TERRORIST Bill Ayers who bombed federal bldgs.
Raises a toast to Kalidi
Here comes the Ersatz President!
February 3, 2009 - 14:00 ET by needleThis is the BEST thing that The Zero has done!!!
Now whenever he is fanfared the musical message will be:
Here comes the Ersatz President!
(BTW, what is the Arabic for “ersatz?”)
Furthermore, while the Zero is corrupting everything he can touch, he is going to preserve (inadvertently) the sanctity of “Hail to the Chief” – just another thing the “patriotic” liberals could not give a damn about anyway.
Of course, long term this will just be another corruption of tradition by the liberals. But since we are in an essentially no-win situation, I think that this is something we can all be thankful for under the circumstances.
Impunitas semper ad deteriora invitat.
Coatless, tieless Gipper demeans Oval Office...
February 8, 2009 - 23:07 ET by JerSomehow, still manages to win Cold War. HuffPo fakery, perhaps?
Jer