A new and unexpected tradition in connection with the "A Capitol Fourth" concert began in 1991, when Tony Bennett was the headline performer. Aware of Bennett's passion for art, Executive Producer Jerry Colbert invited the popular singer to paint a Fourth of July image to celebrate the birthday of the United States. Bennett was pleased to do so, and his painting became the first commemorative poster. In subsequent years, a variety of artists have contributed patriotic paintings and photographs featuring iconic images of the U.S. capital city for the annual "A Capitol Fourth" official poster.