A spokesperson for Beyoncé has confirmed that the singer will not participate in the 2024 Democratic National Convention. “Beyoncé was never scheduled to be there,” the representative stated, adding that rumors of a performance were false.
Speculation about Beyoncé’s appearance began circulating online in the lead-up to the convention, particularly surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic presidential nomination. Recent reports indicated that Pink would be the main performer ahead of Harris’ speech. On Thursday, Pink, who performed “What About Us” alongside her daughter Willow, appeared to move up in the lineup, sparking further excitement about a potential surprise guest.
Although Beyoncé did not attend, her influence was felt at the United Center in Chicago, where her song “Freedom” was played as Harris arrived on stage to accept the party’s nomination. Beyoncé had previously granted permission for the song, featured in her 2016 album Lemonade, to be used in Harris’ campaign, and it has become a campaign anthem, appearing in a recent advertisement for Harris-Walz.
This year’s DNC was hosted by celebrities including Tony Goldwyn, Ana Navarro, Mindy Kaling, and Kerry Washington, each taking turns as emcees throughout the four-day event. The convention showcased performances by artists such as Stevie Wonder, John Legend, and Patti LaBelle, along with surprise appearances from figures like Oprah Winfrey, who encouraged independent voters to participate in the election. A notable daytime panel was moderated by Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
On the third night, John Legend and Sheila E. honored Tim Walz’s home state of Minnesota by performing Prince’s classic “Let’s Go Crazy,” paying tribute to the late music legend from Minneapolis. Stevie Wonder also surprised attendees on Wednesday with a performance of his hit “Higher Ground,” urging the crowd to vote and reflect on the moment in history they were witnessing.
The Republican National Convention held in July featured prominent personalities such as Hulk Hogan, Kid Rock, and Amber Rose.