2024-08-23 12:10:02
Pop singer Pink and country trio The Chicks are expected to perform on the fourth and final night of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, two sources familiar with the planning told NBC News.
Pink, whose legal name is Alecia Beth Moore, supported Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential campaign and criticized then-President George W. Bush’s policies in her song “Dear Mr. President” during his administration. Pink is also known for her involvement in several charities and campaigns supporting causes that champion animal rights, LGBTQ rights, women’s rights and more.
The Chicks, formerly known as the Dixie Chicks, are expected to perform the national anthem. The group sang an a cappella version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” that aired on the final night of the 2020 DNC, which was largely held virtually due to Covid-19 restrictions.
The band drew widespread backlash in 2003 from the country music industry and its fan base after lead singer Natalie Maines publicly spoke out against then-President George W. Bush during a concert in London days before the Iraq War began. At the time, Maines said that the band did not support the war and that they were “ashamed” that Bush also called the state of Texas home.
The expected performances by Pink and The Chicks come after fellow chart-topping artists John Legend, Sheila E. and Stevie Wonder performed at the convention Wednesday night. A Democratic source familiar with the planning told NBC News that the DNC has several surprises, both musical and otherwise, in store for Thursday night that have not been previously reported.
Country singers Mickey Guyton and Jason Isbell performed at the convention Monday night, and R&B legend Patti LaBelle and rapper Common performed Tuesday night.
The convention’s roll call vote Tuesday night showcased popular music from artists native to their respective states and territories. Rapper Lil Jon also did a surprise performance of his hit “Turn Down for What” as Georgia’s guest during the roll call.
Singer-songwriter James Taylor was scheduled to perform on the first night of the convention but was cut from the program because of scheduling delays.
The convention has also featured several celebrity appearances, such as Oprah Winfrey’s surprise speech, director Spike Lee joining New York Democrats to deliver the state’s 298 delegate votes to Vice President Kamala Harris, and actor Eva Longoria speaking on behalf of Texas delegates during the convention roll call.