A night of stars and politics: The Democratic National Convention’s musical choices
The anticipation and the relief
In any other scenario, the absence of a superstar like Beyoncé at a major televised event would be a letdown. However, the collective sigh of relief heard across the nation on Thursday night was palpable. Many hoped for a surprise appearance by either Beyoncé or Taylor Swift at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), but the political pragmatist in me was relieved they didn’t. The art of being a superstar often involves knowing when the world needs you and when it doesn’t.
A well-produced convention
This year’s DNC was exceptionally well-produced, with a conservative approach to star entertainers. While there were big names, none were so big as to overshadow the event. Pink, for instance, delivered a heartfelt acoustic performance that added a touch of star power without dominating the news cycle. The producers, Ricky Kershner and Glenn Weiss, seemed to have a strategy: use entertainers sparingly to remind viewers that the arts community largely supports their cause.
The evolution of musical choices
The 2020 DNC, often remembered as the “Zoom convention,” featured younger and hipper music choices like Billie Eilish’s “My Future.” This year, the focus shifted to more seasoned artists. Common, who rose to fame in the ’90s, was one of the younger performers. This shift away from trying to appeal to a younger audience felt like a deliberate choice, avoiding the pitfalls of appearing out of touch.
The cleverness of conservatism in music
Both the DNC and the Republican National Convention (RNC) leaned heavily on country music, albeit with different approaches. The RNC’s choices, including Kid Rock and Lee Greenwood, felt like a nod to their base. In contrast, the DNC highlighted the more liberal side of country music, featuring artists like the Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks) and Maren Morris, who have faced backlash for their political views.
Jason Isbell’s poignant performance
Jason Isbell, often labeled as a country artist, opened the convention with “Something More Than Free,” a song that resonated with the working-class values of many Southern Democrats. His performance felt like a reclamation of a genre often associated with conservative politics.
Mickey Guyton’s bold move
Mickey Guyton, a mainstream country artist, took a significant risk by performing at the DNC. Her song “All American” served as a unifying anthem, despite the potential backlash from some of her fan base. Her decision to support a candidate who aligns with her values was a bold statement.
The blend of country and R&B
The DNC’s playlist was dominated by country and R&B, two genres that have historically shaped American music. While the convention was light on rock, Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World” played loudly after Tim Walz’s speech, adding a touch of rock to the mix. John Legend’s Prince tribute also bridged the gap between rock and R&B.
The absence of contemporary hip-hop
While some may have wished for more recent hip-hop artists, Common’s presence was still impactful. The most viral moment came from Lil Jon’s surprise cameo during the states’ roll call, proving that even brief performances can leave a lasting impression.
Pink’s powerful performance
Pink’s rendition of “What About Us” was a highlight of the convention. The song, a protest anthem from the early Trump era, resonated deeply with the audience. Its lyrics, “We are problems that want to be solved / We are children that need to be loved,” captured the disillusionment felt by many.
The strategic absence of superstars
Would the DNC have welcomed Swift or Beyoncé if they had offered to perform? Probably. However, the convention’s musical choices were like VP picks—meant to enhance without overshadowing. The absence of these superstars allowed the focus to remain on the political messages, ensuring that the speeches, particularly Kamala Harris’s, were not overshadowed.
the DNC’s musical choices were a testament to the power of strategic planning. By carefully selecting artists who aligned with their message, they created a memorable and impactful event. The endorsements from bigger stars will likely come later, providing a boost when it’s most needed. For now, the DNC’s blend of country, R&B, and a touch of rock set the perfect tone for a pivotal moment in American politics.