DNC Celebrates Each State with Unique Songs

The ceremonial roll call at the Democratic National Convention highlighted both national and state pride, encapsulated through a vibrant musical backdrop. During this event, delegates announced their votes for Vice President Kamala Harris while DJ Cassidy performed a selection of songs, each carefully chosen to represent the various states.

Tennessee delegates celebrated with Dolly Parton’s iconic “9 to 5,” while Texas showcased its flair by rocking out to Houston native Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em.” New York Governor Kathy Hochul took the opportunity to spotlight the Empire State’s rich history, featuring Jay Z and Alicia Keys’ empowering anthem “Empire State of Mind.” Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom joined in on the celebrations with a mashup of Tupac Shakur’s “California Love” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”

In a surprise turn during the ceremony, Harris made a live appearance to accept the party’s nomination. She addressed the attendees from a campaign event in Wisconsin while Beyoncé’s “Freedom” played in the background, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the moment.

The ceremonial roll call unfolded on Tuesday, marking the second day of the convention taking place in Chicago. The event was not only a show of political unity but an opportunity to celebrate the diverse musical heritage of the United States. The choice of songs provided a lively soundtrack as each state’s delegates cast their votes.

Here’s a look at the songs that represented each state during the roll call:

Tennessee: “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton

Texas: “Texas Hold ‘Em” by Beyoncé

South Dakota: “That’s What I Like About You” by The Romantics

South Carolina: “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a Sex Machine)” by James Brown

Oregon: “Float On” by Modest Mouse

Ohio: “Green Light” by John Legend

Florida: “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty

Georgia: “Turn Down For What?” by Lil Jon

New Jersey: “Born in the USA” by Bruce Springsteen

California: “California Love” by Tupac Shakur

California: “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar

Illinois: “Fortunate” by Common

Massachusetts: “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by Dropkick Murphys

Virginia: “The Way I Are” by Timbaland (featuring Keri Hilson & D.O.E)

Utah: “Everybody Talks” by Neon Trees

Wisconsin: “Jump Around” by House of Pain

Rhode Island: “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

Pennsylvania: “Black and Yellow” by Wiz Khalifa

Wyoming: “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas

Oklahoma: “Ain’t Goin’ Down (’til the Sun Comes Up)” by Garth Brooks

Minnesota: “1999” by Prince

This musical celebration not only showcased the diverse talents of American artists but also created an engaging atmosphere for delegates and attendees, emphasizing the convention’s theme of unity and pride.

Source: USA TODAY