In 2010, The White House hosted a rare music concert studded with some of the biggest names in pop, all brought together to honor the living legend Sir Paul McCartney, who had been awarded the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song (dubbed as ‘America’s highest award for popular music’).

However, Sir Paul refused to sit back and let The White House’s myriad of pop superstars serenade him. Instead, he joined forces with an old friend and collaborative partner to give something extra special back to the President himself.

Amassing more than 1.5 million views to date, Music Man readers can watch the moment Sir Paul McCartney serenaded Barack Obama and his family.

But who was Paul’s mystery collaborator? None other than Stevie Wonder – the soul star Paul had joined forces with twenty-eight years prior, on their powerful hit ballad of racial harmony and integration, “Ebony and Ivory.”

First released in 1982, under President Ronald Reagan, “Ebony and Ivory” soared to #1 on both the UK and US singles charts, spellbinding the world with its brave political message.

Now, performed in front of the US’s first black president, the song takes on a brand new lease of life.

Sir Paul and Stevie rekindle their decades-long friendship as they hit the main stage together, the pair spilling anecdotes about their deep-rooted connection and the songwriting process, before diving into their timeless ballad.

Performing live before a current US president might fill even the most seasoned of musicians with utter fear. But Paul and Stevie take on the challenge like absolute pros—no hint of nerves ruining the moment as they resurrect their hit, singing in perfect harmony and jamming like old friends.

Fans can’t get enough of their chemistry, or their undying musical talent. One top commenter spoke for hundreds of viewers when they wrote beneath this viral YouTube clip, “[Stevie] Wonder genuinely brought the best out of Macca here. Fantastic vocals considering both men’s age. I would’ve thought some of those notes would’ve been beyond Paul in 2010 but wow – he sang it superbly. And look how effortlessly he plays that bass part while doing so. Absolute genius and when he goes we will never see his likes again!”

But as fans look back on the glory days of Obama’s time in the White House, one commenter couldn’t help but notice, “And now the message of this song is forgotten by the present occupants of this building…”

Sir Paul McCartney’s surprise serenade for President Obama remains a touching highlight of the Gershwin Prize concert. To watch the moment and explore further performances and background, check the useful links to find out more below this paragraph