In New York, a fireworks display led to a brief blaze on the Brooklyn Bridge. In Washington D.C., stormy weather delayed a speech by President Trump filled with grievances. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, a more harmonious scene unfolded.

On Saturday night, tens of thousands gathered at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum for a July 4th benefit concert. Headlining the event was Chris Stapleton, who enchanted the crowd with songs comparing a lover to Tennessee whiskey. Known for his bipartisan appeal, Stapleton was joined by artists Smashing Pumpkins, Chaka Khan, Maren Morris, and Queen Latifah.

Tickets were priced at $17.76, and the concert was organized by America250, a commission initiated by Congress in 2016 for the country’s 250th birthday celebrations. All proceeds went to Feeding America, the largest domestic hunger-relief organization in the U.S.

Rosie Rios, America250 Chair, stated from the stage, “No politics — just purpose.” Her statement drew a contrast with Freedom 250, Trump’s semiquincentennial initiative that organized a storm-plagued event on the National Mall.

Compared to the president’s event, where he criticized the justice system, the concert in Los Angeles felt refreshingly devoid of politics. It was an occasion where people from diverse backgrounds united to enjoy music and festivities.

Stapleton’s performance began without much talk, simply dedicating the time to music. Despite initial slow ticket sales, the venue filled up as the night progressed.

The country star was in fine form, delivering soulful renditions of songs like “Bad as I Used to Be” and harmonizing with his wife, Morgane, in “Millionaire.” He concluded with “Tennessee Whiskey,” a staple of American music akin to classics like Ray Charles’ “Georgia on My Mind.”

The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a dynamic performance with hits like “Bullet With Butterfly Wings.” Chaka Khan, dubbed “the legendary Chaka Khan” on the concert poster, thrilled with her powerful voice in songs like “Ain’t Nobody.”

Maren Morris made a smooth transition between her electronic hit “The Middle” and the country-infused “My Church,” despite traveling from a friend’s wedding in New York.

Queen Latifah, acting as host, shared her thoughts on American ideals and performed her iconic “U.N.I.T.Y.” with a lively drum line, highlighting themes of respect.

The concert emphasized unity and celebration through diverse musical acts, bringing people together in cultural appreciation.