Editor’s note: A live feed of evening and primetime speeches will be available each day Monday-Thursday in the player above and on the 24/7 streaming channel. You can also stream the convention on our YouTube channel.
Last night at the Democratic National Convention, the atmosphere was electric, blending political fervor with a vibrant celebration of music and culture. Big speeches from influential figures such as The Obamas, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders resonated throughout the event. However, it was the unique blend of politics and entertainment that truly set the tone for Tuesday’s proceedings in Chicago.
DJ Cassidy took to the stage in a striking blue double-breasted suit, spinning tunes for each state during the ceremonial roll call. As states nominated Kamala Harris and Tim Walz for the Democratic presidential ticket, the music transformed the event into a lively dance party. From Prince’s “1999” for Minnesota to Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” for New Jersey, the playlist reflected the diverse cultural tapestry of the Democratic Party.
MORE: Why did California, Minnesota pass in DNC roll call? Here’s an explanation
Democrats are keen to emphasize how Harris’ nomination has revitalized the party’s base. The ceremonial roll call playlist not only entertained but also symbolized unity and enthusiasm among delegates, showcasing the party’s commitment to inclusivity and celebration.
Every U.S. state and territory had the opportunity to announce how their delegates voted, each accompanied by a unique “walk-up song.” This innovative approach not only engaged the audience but also highlighted the cultural significance of music in political events.
DNC Roll Call Playlist
- Alabama: Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Alaska: Feel It Still – Portugal. The Man
- Arizona: Edge of Seventeen – Stevie Nicks
- Arkansas: Don’t Stop – Fleetwood Mac
- California: The Next Episode – Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg, California Love – 2Pac and Dr. Dre, Alright – Kendrick Lamar
- Colorado: September – Earth, Wind & Fire
- Connecticut: Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Stevie Wonder
- Democrats Abroad: Love Train – The O’Jays
- Washington D.C.: Let me Clear my Throat – DJ Kool
- Delaware: Higher Love – Whitney Houston and Kygo
- Florida: Won’t Back Down – Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
- Georgia: Turn Down for What – Lil’ Jon
- Guam: Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter
- Hawaii: 24K Magic – Bruno Mars
- Idaho: Private Idaho – The B-52s
- Illinois: Sirius – Alan Parsons Project
- Indiana: Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough – Michael Jackson
- Iowa: Celebration – Kool & The Gang
- Kansas: Carry on Wayward Son – Kansas
- Kentucky: First Class – Jack Harlow
- Louisiana: All I Do Is Win – DJ Khaled
- Maine: Shut Up and Dance – Walk the Moon
- Maryland: Respect – Aretha Franklin
- Massachusetts: I’m Shipping Up to Boston – Dropkick Murphys
- Michigan: Lose Yourself – Eminem
- Minnesota: Kiss and 1999 – Prince
- Mississippi: Twistin’ the Night Away – Sam Cooke
- Missouri: Good Luck, Babe – Chappell Roan
- Montana: American Woman – Lenny Kravitz
- Nebraska: Firework – Katy Perry
- Nevada: Mr. Brightside – The Killers
- New Hampshire: Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
- New Jersey: Born in the U.S.A. – Bruce Springsteen
- New Mexico: Confident – Demi Lovato
- New York: Empire State of Mind – Jay-Z and Alicia Keys
- North Carolina: Raise Up – Petey Pablo
- North Dakota: Fight Song – Rachel Platten
- Northern Mariana Islands: Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
- Ohio: Green Light – John Legend
- Oklahoma: Ain’t Goin’ Down (Til The Sun Comes Up) – Garth Brooks
- Oregon: Float On – Modest Mouse
- Pennsylvania: Motownphilly – Boyz II Men and Black & Yellow – Wiz Khalifa
- Puerto Rico: Despacito – Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee
- Rhode Island: Shake it Off – Taylor Swift
- South Carolina: Get On Up – James Brown
- South Dakota: What I Like About You – The Romantics
- Tennessee: 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
- Texas: TEXAS HOLD ‘EM – Beyoncé
- Utah: Animal – Neon Trees
- Vermont: Stick Season – Noah Kahan
- U.S. Virgin Islands: VI to the Bone – Mic Love
- Virginia: The Way I Are – Timbaland
- Washington: Can’t Hold Us – Macklemore
- West Virginia: Take Me Home (Country Roads) – John Denver
- Wisconsin: Jump Around – House of Pain
- Wyoming: I Gotta Feeling – Black Eyed Peas
As the roll call unfolded, it became clear that this year’s event was not merely a procedural formality but a celebration of the party’s unity and diversity. Unlike traditional roll calls that serve as official tallies of delegates, this year’s was ceremonial, reflecting a strategic decision by the Democrats to avoid potential legal challenges regarding ballot placements.
What’s Different About This Year’s Roll Call?
This year’s roll call was designed to be a ceremonial event rather than an official tally of delegates. The Democratic Party opted for a virtual roll call to ensure that the nominations of Harris and Walz were secured ahead of the original deadline for ballot placements. This decision underscores a proactive approach to avoid any legal complications, showcasing the party’s commitment to a smooth electoral process.
How Did the Roll Call Work?
The event proceeded with states going in alphabetical order to pledge their delegates to the Harris-Walz ticket. All 57 delegations from the 50 states and U.S. territories participated in the voice vote, adding to the sense of collective participation and enthusiasm.
Did Any States Have Special Spots in the Order?
In a departure from tradition, where a home state typically provides the final votes needed to secure a majority, this year’s count featured special slots for Delaware, Minnesota, and California, emphasizing the significance of these states in the current political landscape.
As the Democratic Party navigates the complexities of the upcoming election cycle, the blend of music, culture, and politics witnessed at the convention may signal a broader trend toward more engaging and inclusive political events. This evolution could reshape how political parties connect with their base, leveraging cultural elements to foster a sense of community and enthusiasm among supporters.
Looking ahead, it will be essential for political organizations to continue embracing innovative approaches that resonate with younger voters and diverse communities. By integrating entertainment and cultural references into political discourse, parties can enhance their outreach and build a more dynamic and engaged electorate.
