As Donald Trump prepares to take the presidential oath for the second time, it’s also a big day for one of his favorite performers, Christopher Macchio. A mainstay at Trump rallies, Macchio is set to sing the National Anthem at the inauguration, joining the ranks of musical greats who have taken on the role at past ceremonies, including Aretha Franklin, Lady Gaga, and Jessye Norman.
Macchio, who grew up on Long Island, N.Y., told CBS News his musical journey began as a teenager.
“It was only in high school that my voice– that I had tried to keep secret– was discovered, and the trajectory of my life and aspirations changed radically after that,” Macchio said, adding that he credits his high school choir teacher for sparking his love of opera.
For Macchio, performing at the inauguration represents a big leap, both personally and professionally.
“(It’s) been a tremendous honor, and it really validates the faith that that teacher had in me all those years ago,” he said.
His talents would eventually lead Macchio to Trump. In 2015, he received a last-minute invitation to perform at Mar-a-Lago. After Macchio’s performance, Trump took the microphone and praised him, saying, “This guy’s got a tremendous voice, magnificent.”
Since then, Macchio has become close to the Trump family, which has led to performances at major events, including the 2020 Republican National Convention.
“His grace and generosity that I think other people might not have had a similar opportunity to observe,” the singer said about Trump.
As he prepared for his inauguration performance, Macchio emphasized his intention to deliver a unifying message through his music.
