The Democratic National Convention resumed on Tuesday night at the United Center in Chicago, where musical performances celebrated Vice President Kamala Harris’ nomination for president.
Legendary singer Patti LaBelle took the stage to perform her classic 1978 hit “You Are My Friend” during an in memoriam segment, delivering heartfelt lyrics that highlighted the bond of friendship. LaBelle has a history with the DNC, having performed Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come” back in 2004 and most recently appearing at President Biden’s Juneteenth concert on the White House South Lawn.
Rapper Common also entertained the audience with his new song “Fortunate,” a collaboration with Pete Rock. At one point during his performance, he tailored the lyrics to recognize Kamala Harris, urging the crowd to “be fortunate” for her nomination. Common previously performed virtually at the 2020 DNC alongside John Legend, where they shared their Oscar-winning song “Glory” from the film Selma.
The second night of the DNC was themed “A Bold Vision for America’s Future,” featuring speakers such as former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. The evening was hosted by commentator Ana Navarro.
Earlier in the convention, President Biden had addressed the crowd to support Harris, who has begun gaining ground in recent polls against Republican nominee Donald Trump, especially in critical battleground states, as highlighted by recent surveys from New York Times/Siena College.