Democratic National Convention Day 2: A Symphony of States and Sound
Day 2 of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago was a vibrant tapestry of passionate oration and musical celebration, a stark contrast to the often-staid affairs of political gatherings. While the powerful speeches from former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama undoubtedly resonated with attendees and viewers alike, it was the reimagined roll call of states that truly ignited the night. This traditionally procedural segment, often a rote recitation of delegate counts, was transformed into a lively showcase of American music, spearheaded by the creative vision of DJ Cassidy.
The roll call, a cornerstone of any national convention, serves as a symbolic affirmation of unity and a demonstration of support for the party’s nominee. Delegates from each state, territory, and Democrats Abroad rise to announce their state’s votes, often using the opportunity to highlight their region’s unique qualities and contributions. This year, however, the DNC sought to inject a fresh energy into the proceedings, replacing the typical predictable pronouncements with a curated playlist of songs that reflected the spirit and cultural identity of each state.
The result was a resounding success, a sonic journey across the American landscape that resonated with delegates and viewers alike. DJ Cassidy’s skillful selection of tracks created a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, transforming the roll call from a procedural formality into a memorable celebration of American diversity. The carefully chosen songs served not only as musical accompaniment but also as symbolic representations of each state’s history, culture, and identity.
The playlist’s brilliance lay in its diverse range of musical genres and artists, spanning decades and reflecting the varied tastes of the American population. Some selections were obvious nods to state names or landmarks, such as The B-52s’ "Private Idaho" for the Gem State and John Denver’s iconic "Take Me Home, Country Roads" for West Virginia. These straightforward choices were immediately recognizable and elicited cheers from the crowd, creating a sense of collective recognition and shared identity.
Beyond the literal connections, the playlist delved deeper into the musical heritage of each state. The Killers’ "Mr. Brightside," an anthem of youthful exuberance, represented Nevada, their home state. Michael Jackson’s infectious "Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough" paid homage to Indiana, where the King of Pop was born. Beyoncé’s groundbreaking "Texas Hold ‘Em" celebrated her roots in Houston, highlighting the state’s rich musical legacy.
The inclusion of local artists was a particularly effective strategy, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among delegates from each state. From Lynyrd Skynyrd’s southern rock anthem "Sweet Home Alabama" to Eminem’s raw and powerful "Lose Yourself" for Michigan, the playlist showcased the diverse musical talent that has emerged from every corner of the nation. Even Lil Jon, the Atlanta hip-hop icon, took to the stage to deliver a live performance of his signature track "Turn Down for What" for his home state of Georgia, injecting a dose of high-energy excitement into the proceedings.
The song selections were not without their surprises and more contemporary flavors. Sabrina Carpenter’s catchy "Espresso" represented Guam, while Lady Gaga’s soaring "Edge of Glory" was chosen for American Samoa. This mix of established classics and current hits ensured that the playlist appealed to a broad audience, spanning generations and musical tastes.
The complete list of songs showcased the breadth and depth of the playlist’s curation:
- Alabama: “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Alaska: “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man
- American Samoa: “Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga
- Arizona: “Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks
- Arkansas: “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac
- California: “California Love” by Tupac and “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar
- Colorado: “September” by Earth, Wind Fire
- Connecticut: “Signed Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder
- Delaware: “Higher Love” by Whitney Houston and Kygo
- Democrats Abroad: “Love Train” by The O’Jays
- District of Columbia: “Let Me Clear My Throat” by DJ Kool
- Florida: “Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty
- Georgia: “Turn Down for What” by Lil Jon
- Guam: “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter
- Hawaii: “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars
- Idaho: “Private Idaho” by The B-52s
- Illinois: “Sirius” by The Alan Parsons Project
- Indiana: “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson
- Iowa: “Celebrate” by Kool & the Gang
- Kansas: “Carry on Wayward Son” by Kansas
- Kentucky: “First Class” by Jack Harlow
- Louisiana: “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled
- Maine: “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon
- Maryland: “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
- Massachusetts: “I’m Shipping up to Boston” by Dropkick Murphys
- Michigan: “Lose Yourself” by Eminem
- Minnesota: “Kiss” and “1999” by Prince
- Mississippi: “Twisting the Night Away” by Sam Cooke
- Missouri: “Good Luck, Babe” by Chappell Roan
- Montana: “American Woman” by Lenny Kravitz
- Nebraska: “Firework” by Katy Perry
- Nevada: “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
- New Hampshire: “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
- New Jersey: “Born in the USA” by Bruce Springsteen
- New Mexico: “Confident” by Demi Lovato
- New York: “Empire State of Mind” by Jay Z and Alicia Keys
- North Carolina: “Raise Up” by Petey Pablo
- North Dakota: “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys
- Ohio: “Green Light” by John Legend
- Oklahoma: “Ain’t Goin Down” by Garth Brooks
- Oregon: “Float On” by Modest Mouse
- Pennsylvania: “Black and Yellow” by Wiz Khalifa and “Motownphilly” by Boyz II Men
- Puerto Rico: “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee
- Rhode Island: “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
- South Carolina: “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” by James Brown
- South Dakota: “What I Like About You” by The Romantics
- Tennessee: “9 To 5” by Dolly Parton
- Texas: “Texas Hold ‘Em” by Beyoncé
- Utah: “Animal” by Neon Trees
- Vermont: “Stick Season” by Noah Kahan
- Virginia: “The Way I Are” by Timbaland
- Washington: “Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore
- West Virginia: “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
- Wisconsin: “Jump Around” by House of Pain
- Wyoming: “I Gotta Feeling” by Black Eyed Peas
- Virgin Islands: “VI to the Bone” by Mic Love
The carefully curated playlist highlighted a significant difference between the DNC and the Republican National Convention held the previous month. While the Democrats embraced music as a unifying force, the Republican party has faced numerous challenges in securing artists’ permission to use their songs at campaign events. The article alludes to Donald Trump’s history of legal disputes over the unauthorized use of music, highlighting a broader trend of artists being more aligned with the Democratic party’s values and platform.
Day 3 of the DNC promises to continue the celebration of music and unity, with performances by Pink and John Legend scheduled alongside speeches from prominent figures, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. This focus on entertainment and cultural expression underscores the Democratic party’s commitment to engaging with voters on multiple levels, creating a convention experience that is both informative and inspiring. The innovative approach to the roll call, coupled with the planned musical performances, demonstrates a willingness to embrace new ideas and create a more inclusive and engaging political landscape.
