FILE - This July 5, 2009 file photo shows Al Green performing during the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans. Jennifer Hudson sang Green's classic "Let's Stay Together," at an inaugural ball Monday, Jan. 21, 2013, leaving many to wonder why the soul legend wasn't singing his own hit for President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama. In a statement to The Associated Press, his representative said Green had been asked to sing, but scheduling conflicts prevented him from attending Monday's festivities. Green said he'd be honored to sing for the president in the future. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, file)

(AP) -- Al Green says if things had worked out, it would have been him serenading President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle at the inaugural ball.

Jennifer Hudson sang Green's classic "Let's Stay Together," leaving many to wonder why the soul legend wasn't singing his own hit for the first couple.

In a statement to The Associated Press, his representative said Green had been asked to sing, but scheduling conflicts prevented him from attending Monday's festivities. Green said he'd be honored to sing for the president in the future.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Obama famously sang a snippet of the song at an event last year that Green attended.

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Nekesa Mumbi Moody is the AP's global entertainment and lifestyles editor. Follow her at http://www.twitter.com/nekesamumbi
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