Jimmy Carter 100 Concert Commemorates the Former President’s 100th Birthday

In a heartfelt tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, a star-studded benefit concert was held on Tuesday to celebrate his impending 100th birthday. The event, which took place at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre, featured a diverse lineup of artists from various genres, all paying homage to the 39th president’s dedication to human rights and his belief in music as a binding force among people.

Jason Carter, the former president’s grandson, addressed the enthusiastic crowd of over 4,000 attendees, stating, “Everyone here is making history. This is the first time people have come together to celebrate the 100th birthday of an American president.”

The benefit concert aimed to support international programs run by The Carter Center, an organization founded by the Carters in 1982 after their time in the White House. The event featured performances from artists spanning generations, beginning with Carter’s 1976 campaign. Georgia Public Broadcasting plans to air the concert on October 1, coinciding with Carter’s actual birthday.

Currently in hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia, Carter’s health remains a concern. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of love that endured through 77 years of marriage.

Chuck Leavell, a musician from the Allman Brothers Band who supported Carter’s 1976 campaign, remarked, “He really was the rock-and-roll president.” He emphasized that Carter understood the unifying power of music, a sentiment echoed throughout the evening’s performances.

The concert showcased an array of talent, including India Arie, who brought soulful R&B to the stage while dressed in a vibrant purple gown. The B-52s added energy with their classic hit “Love Shack,” while the Atlanta Symphony Chamber Chorus offered a classical touch with patriotic songs.

Former President Barack Obama shared his own appreciation for Carter in a video message, praising his eclectic music taste. Obama quipped, “I’ve never thrown a concert that features pop, rock, gospel, country, jazz, classical, and hip-hop.” He noted Carter’s ability to convey messages through music, referencing one of Carter’s famous quotes about music’s role in unifying America.

Leavell took to the stage multiple times throughout the night, revisiting songs he performed nearly 50 years ago during Carter’s remarkable journey from an underdog governor of Georgia to winning the presidency amidst a tumultuous political climate.

Jason Carter reflected on the powerful connection between music and political legacy, stating, “The Allman Brothers helped get him elected. Willie Nelson helped get him elected. He truly believed that.” He articulated how artists represented a new South that signaled progress beyond the days of segregation.

The evening also paid homage to Carter’s achievements as president and his ongoing influence through The Carter Center, which advocates for democracy, conflict resolution, and disease prevention worldwide. Singer Hannah Hooper from the band Grouplove praised Carter for significantly expanding national parklands, particularly in Alaska.

Actress Renee Zellweger recounted the deep bond between Carter and his wife, from their early days to their mutual support throughout their lives. They first met when Rosalynn was just days old, a love story that spanned decades.

Former Atlanta Braves baseball players Terry Pendleton and Dale Murphy reflected on Carter’s role as the team’s top fan. They recounted fond memories of having him watch games and presented his great-grandsons with a jersey featuring the number 100, symbolizing his milestone birthday.

Bernice King, daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., spoke about Carter’s relationship with her family. She expressed gratitude for his acknowledgment of her father’s contributions to his election campaign, noting that without the Civil Rights Movement, Carter might never have risen to such a significant political position.

The night remained largely apolitical, though Jason Carter had previously spoken at the Democratic National Convention in August, conveying his grandfather’s wishes to be part of the celebration. Still, hints of Democratic solidarity for Carter were evident during the event.

Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers praised Carter for his visionary leadership, lamenting that the nation would have benefitted had he been able to “finish the job,” in reference to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980.

Notably, tributes came from a bipartisan group of former presidents. Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama all shared their respects, while President Biden recalled his early endorsement of Carter’s presidential campaign, calling him “Mr. President.”

However, former President Donald Trump, who has been critical of Carter in the past, was absent from the tributes. This year’s election dynamics and ongoing political tensions were subtly present, highlighting the contrast in perspectives regarding Carter’s presidency.

As the concert unfolded, India Arie’s performance included the song “What If,” which resonated with attendees due to its references to trailblazing Black women, including Vice President Kamala Harris. This moment electrified the crowd.

Jason Carter shared that his grandfather was particularly inspired by the prospect of a Harris presidency. He mentioned that Jimmy Carter had been struggling after his wife’s passing but was now invigorated by the hope surrounding potential leadership changes in the upcoming elections.

As he remarked, “He’s ready to turn the page on Trump,” driven by the excitement of supporting Harris in her campaign.