Kanye West tops list as Internet speculates on Trump inauguration's 'surprise guest' in musical lineup

WASHINGTON, DC: As Donald Trump prepares for his upcoming inauguration, fans and social media users alike are eagerly speculating about the mystery "surprise guest" performance announced by the inaugural committee.

With just days to go before the event, all eyes are on the Liberty Ball, where the unidentified artist is expected to make a special appearance.

Donald Trump inaugural committee reveals event schedule

On January 13, 2025, the committee announced a schedule for the events celebrating his "triumphant return to the White House and the start of the great American comeback."

The release outlined the key events, including the formal swearing-in ceremony, the celebratory parade, and a series of exclusive formal balls. However, it was the mention of a surprise musical performance at the Liberty Ball that quickly captured the attention of fans.

The celebrations for Trump’s inauguration will kick off on Saturday, January 18 with a President’s Reception, followed by fireworks and a dinner. Sunday, January 19, events will include a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a "Make America Great Again Victory Rally", and a dinner.

On Monday, January 20, Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States. The official inauguration website notes that the day will feature several ceremonies, balls, and a parade. Trump previously served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021.

The inauguration will also include performances by well-known artists such as Jason Aldean (ACM Artist of the Decade), Carrie Underwood (eight-time Grammy-winning artist), The Village People (known for "YMCA"), and Rascal Flatts, among others.

The day's events will begin with a service at St John's Church in Washington, DC, followed by tea at the White House. Musical performances and opening remarks will then take place on the West Lawn of the US Capitol building.

Both Trump and JD Vance will recite their oaths during the swearing-in ceremony, which will be followed by Trump’s inaugural address.

During the ceremony, Underwood will sing "America the Beautiful", followed by Christopher Macchio performing the National Anthem. Lee Greenwood will also take the stage.

At the Make America Great Again Victory Rally, performances will include Kid Rock, The Village People, Billy Ray Cyrus, Greenwood, and Liberty University’s Praise Choir.

Later in the evening, Trump will attend three inaugural balls. Gavin DeGraw will perform at the Starlight Ball, while country artists Rascal Flatts and Parker McCollum will perform at the Commander-in-Chief Ball.

The Liberty Ball will feature Jason Aldean, The Village People, and a surprise guest. The entire inauguration will be livestreamed on the White House’s official platforms.

Social media explodes with guesses as fans speculate on Donald Trump's surprise musical guest

Following the announcement, social media exploded with theories and guesses about who could be the mystery performer.

One of the most prominent names being thrown around is rapper and fashion mogul Kanye West, who has had a complicated and highly public relationship with Trump in the past.

The idea of West, known for his bold statements and public persona, appearing at such a high-profile political event has sparked widespread speculation.

One comment on X (formerly Twitter) simply read, “Bet it’s Kanye West.”

"We all know it's Kanye West...," said an X user.

An enthusiast asserted, "Wonder if it’ll be Kanye… or maybe a surprise duet with the entire cast of The Apprentice?"

While Kanye West's name has dominated the conversation, other high-profile musicians have also been suggested as possible surprise guests. Country star Morgan Wallen and rapper Kendrick Lamar have been among those mentioned by fans, with some arguing that the selection could represent a mix of political and musical diversity.

Another added, "Watch it be Morgan Wallen"

Third commentator remarked, "Why do I feel it's going to be Kendrick, he really had a big year last year."

"I bet it’s Beyoncé," said a fan.

A person said, "We all know it’s Ariana grande."

Other chimed in, "I know who it is: It’s The Smiths. The ultimate mix of sophistication, wit, and a touch of existential charm. Truly unmatched."

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