Musical Gala Celebrates ‘Rock-and-Roll President’ Jimmy Carter’s 100th

ATLANTA — A star-studded benefit concert was held Tuesday in Atlanta to honor former President Jimmy Carter as he approaches his 100th birthday. This gathering highlighted Carter’s commitment to human rights and his belief in music as a unifying force.

More than 4,000 attendees filled the historic Fox Theatre to celebrate the life of the 39th president, who holds the record for the longest-lived U.S. president. Jason Carter, the former president’s grandson, addressed the crowd, noting the significance of the event. “This is the first time people have come together to celebrate the 100th birthday of an American president,” he stated.

The concert raised funds for international programs supported by The Carter Center, which Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter established in 1982. The event featured a diverse array of artists spanning multiple generations and musical genres, many of whom have roots dating back to Carter’s 1976 presidential campaign. The entire concert will be broadcast on Georgia Public Broadcasting on October 1st, the day of Carter’s birthday. Currently, he is receiving hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia.

Chuck Leavell, a musician known for his work with the Allman Brothers Band, referred to Carter as “the rock-and-roll president.” He emphasized that Carter recognized music as a powerful connector among people, which was evident in the diverse lineup.

The evening showcased performances by artists such as India Arie, who captivated the audience with her soulful R&B, and the B-52s, who energized the crowd with their hit “Love Shack.” The Atlanta Symphony Chamber Chorus also offered a classical and patriotic selection, enhancing the concert’s variety.

Former President Barack Obama shared a video message that commended Carter’s eclectic taste in music. “Now I have another reason to respect you,” he remarked, highlighting the incredible range of musical genres represented that night, which included pop, rock, gospel, country, jazz, classical, and hip-hop.

Obama pointed out that Carter often used music as a platform to convey important messages, referencing one of Carter’s notable quotes: “One of the things that has held America together has been the music that we share and love.”

Throughout the night, Leavell revisited music that resonated during Carter’s groundbreaking 1976 campaign, which challenged traditional political norms and attracted numerous musical supporters.

“Music was such an important part of his political legacy,” Jason Carter explained. He acknowledged the role that musicians like the Allman Brothers and Willie Nelson played in Carter’s rise to the presidency, recognizing their influence on the changing dynamics of the South during a time of racial tension.

Leavell reflected on how Carter’s passion for music was instilled in him at an early age, stemming from his experiences in church. Carter often wrote about how the music he heard at a Black congregation near his home left a lasting impression on him, fostering an appreciation for the cultural diversity present in music.

The concert also highlighted Carter’s achievements as president and with The Carter Center, which works to promote democracy and improve global health. Hannah Hooper from Grouplove celebrated Carter’s impactful environmental policies, particularly his efforts in expanding national parks, while actress Renee Zellweger narrated the enduring love story between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter.

Atlanta Braves legends Terry Pendleton and Dale Murphy shared personal anecdotes, recalling Carter’s enthusiasm as a fan, and presented a Braves jersey to his great-grandsons, emblazoned with the number 100.

Bernice King, daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., spoke about the connection her family had with Carter. She expressed gratitude for his recognition of her father’s role in the political landscape that enabled a Southern governor like Carter to rise to the presidency.

Though the event was mainly a celebration of Carter, some political notes emerged, addressing Democratic sentiments and reflections on historical elections. Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers remarked on the challenges Carter faced and how the nation might have benefited had he completed his political agenda.

Former presidents from both parties joined in the tribute. Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, alongside Obama, praised Carter’s legacy, while President Joe Biden shared fond memories of being the first senator to endorse Carter’s campaign. Biden affectionately referred to Carter as “Mr. President.”

Interestingly, there was no acknowledgment of former President Donald Trump, who has been critical of Carter in the past. Meanwhile, India Arie’s performance included a powerful song referencing historic figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris, which elicited cheers from the crowd.

As the evening concluded, Jason Carter expressed that his grandfather, despite the challenges faced after Rosalynn’s death, finds renewed hope in the current political landscape, particularly with the potential of Kamala Harris breaking barriers for the future of the presidency.

“He’s ready to turn the page on Trump,” Jason Carter shared, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the possibility of having Harris in the Oval Office.