The lineup for Thursday's concert includes Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Melissa Etheridge and Janelle Monae . Also performing will be Tessanne Chin, Ariana Grande and Jill Scott.

The show will be streamed live Thursday night on the White House web site.

It is designed to celebrate what the White House describes as great "foremothers" of American music, with songs exploring the struggles and achievements of women.

In connection with the concert, the White House will hold a workshop for students to learn about the history of women in soul.