Harris Embraces Modern Sound with Beyoncé Track at DNC Speech

On August 22, 2024, Kamala Harris took center stage at the Democratic National Convention to deliver her nomination acceptance speech. This pivotal moment, a tradition dating back to 1832, marked a significant milestone in her political career.

The choice of music accompanying such speeches has long been a strategic decision for candidates. Harris opted for Beyoncé's "Freedom," a track released in 2016 that has become emblematic of her campaign. This selection resonates with the younger demographic within the Democratic Party, reflecting a modern approach to political messaging.

The use of "Freedom" aligns with Harris's groundbreaking role as the first woman of color on a major party's presidential ticket, a milestone achieved in 2020. Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Harris has had a distinguished career in public service, including roles as California's Attorney General from 2011 to 2017 and as a U.S. Senator since 2017.

In contrast to Harris's contemporary musical choice, Republican nominees have typically favored older, more classic songs for their campaigns. This divergence in musical preferences often reflects the different demographic appeals of the two major parties.

An exception to this trend was John McCain, the 2008 Republican presidential nominee, who utilized a unique campaign-specific anthem titled "Raisin' McCain." This song, performed by John Rich of the country duo Big & Rich, deviated from the usual Republican approach to campaign music.

The strategic use of music in political campaigns is not a new phenomenon, with its roots tracing back to the 1800s in the United States. The selection of a particular song can serve as a powerful tool to convey a candidate's image and connect with specific voter demographics.

Beyoncé's "Freedom," which features Kendrick Lamar and won a Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album, carries additional significance given the artist's active involvement in political causes and her support for various Democratic candidates.

As the Democratic National Convention, typically held every four years, continues, Harris's speech and musical choice underscore the evolving nature of political campaigns and their efforts to engage with a diverse electorate.

"This moment is a reflection of the progress we've made as a nation, but also a reminder of the work that lies ahead. Together, we can build a future that truly represents the freedom and opportunity that America promises."

The selection of "Freedom" as Harris's campaign anthem not only highlights her connection to contemporary culture but also emphasizes themes of empowerment and progress, which are central to her political message and the broader Democratic platform.