2008 NBA All-Star Game - Musical Happenings

Musical Happenings

• Friday, February 15: Prior to the 2008 Rookie Challenge, Amanda Shaw performed the U.S. and Canadian anthems. Jordin Sparks performed "Tattoo" during halftime.
• Saturday, February 16: Prior to All-Star Saturday Night, Marc Broussard with the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, performed during the player introductions. Trumpeter Christian Scott performed the U.S. national anthem, while Lamont Hiebert performed the Canadian anthem. The same night, Dr. John paid tribute to NBA Cares, with a performance of "What a Wonderful World.
• Sunday, February 17: For the 57th Annual NBA All-Star Game, Harry Connick, Jr. and Branford Marsalis collaborated on the performance lineup. Connick was the musical director for the halftime show, featuring four original compositions performed by four pairs of pianists including Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Davell Crawford, Art Neville, Ivan Neville, Jonathan Batiste, Ellis Marsalis, and Connick Jr. and his Big Band. Marsalis was the musical director for the All-Star Player introductions, featuring compositions by Marsalis performed by the Rebirth Brass Band. Trumpeter Kermit Ruffins and Trombone Shorty introduced the Western and Eastern Conference All-Star teams. Marsalis directed the U.S. national anthem performed by Stephanie Jordan and guitarist Jonathan Dubose. Deborah Cox performed the Canadian anthem.