US R&B star Beyonce has described singing at the inauguration of President Obama in Washington last night (January 20th) as “the most important day of my life”.

The singer performed a cover of Etta James’ ‘At Last’ as the President and his First Lady Michelle took their first dance at the Neighborhood Inaugural Ball.

Speaking to Good Morning America, Beyonce, who was visibly moved during her performance, expressed her immense pride for her country.

"I can't even describe to you how I felt. I'm actually right now fighting back tears because it's just so emotional,” she said.

“I'm just so proud of my country. There are just certain people in the world that God touches, and this man was born for this. And he was born to lead us, and I just feel so inspired and so proud."

She added: "I'm sorry, I'm so embarrassed. I'm just so lucky to be a part of this history. It's probably the most important day of my life, and I'm so grateful."

The singer, who was joined by a host of her music stars at the Ball, including her husband Jay-Z, said she spent the performance thinking about the “sacrifices” the President and his family had made in order to make it to the White House.

"He makes me want to be smarter; he makes me want to bee more involved," she said.

"Honestly, of course, I've voted before, but I've never really watched the ceremonies. This is my first time being a part of it, and I'm here, and I'm singing ... I'm so overwhelmed, you know. I have chills."

(by Jason Gregory)