Watch BJ the Chicago Kid Sing Soulful National Anthem at Obama’s Farewell Speech

Last night (Jan. 10), the nation was riveted as President Barak Obama delivered his emotional farewell speech from Chicago, telling everyone to remain hopeful because he'd continue to be active as a citizen, and declaring his love for his wife and first lady, Michelle Obama. All in all, it was beautiful and bittersweet, as the nation prepares to deal with the incoming president-elect, Donald Trump, whose campaign and election has been marred by controversy, confusion, and frankly, fear that he's ill-equipped to lead the free world.

The historic night, however, was kicked off by one of Chicago's own, singer BJ the Chicago Kid, who offered a soulful rendition of the National Anthem—which is incredibly fitting for a White House that has shown its stellar taste in music over the years, celebrating everyone from Kendrick Lamar and Common to Chance the Rapper and Questlove.  His performance follows the release of his latest album, The Lost Files Cuffing Season, which dropped in December.

Check out BJ's performance above and watch Obama's moving farewell speech below. You might want to grab the tissue for this one.