DETROIT, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- American R&B artist Raphael Saadiq says he's hoping for an invitation to the nation's capital once President-elect Barack Obama moves into the White House.
Saadig said he would be pleased if his participation in this year's "Christmas in Washington" TV special paved the way for an invitation.
"Being that (Barack) Obama's going to be president next year, I think it's a good look to go there and sing 'cause you'll probably get invited back next year, when Obama's there," explained Saadiq, a former member of the band Tony! Toni! Tone! who has gone on to launch a career as a solo artist and producer for Whitney Houston, Mary J. Blige, the Bee Gees, D'Angelo and Joss Stone.
"So for me it's a big thing. Even though Obama won't be there this year, it's a great look for me and maybe (I'll) get invited back when Obama's around."
Saadiq, who's touring to support his latest album, "The Way I See It," performs the Johnny Moore R&B staple "Merry Christmas, Baby" for "Christmas in Washington," which was taped at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., and will premiere at 8 p.m. ET Wednesday on TNT. Hosted by Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw, it also features performances by Darius Rucker, Straight No Chaser, Casting Crowns, Kristin Chenoweth and Julianne Hough.
