Beyoncé’s representative has confirmed that the singer will not be attending the 2024 Democratic National Convention. The representative stated, “Beyoncé was never scheduled to be there,” and dismissed reports of a potential performance as false.
Amidst growing speculation, rumors circulated online throughout the week regarding Beyoncé’s possible appearance at the convention, particularly in connection with Vice President Kamala Harris’ nomination. Reports indicated that Pink would headline the event, and she appeared to gain prominence in the lineup after performing “What About Us” with her daughter, sparking further talk of a surprise guest.
Despite Beyoncé’s absence, her influence was still felt during the event held at the United Center in Chicago, as her song “Freedom” was played when Harris took the stage to formally accept the party’s nomination. Beyoncé had previously granted Harris permission to use the 2016 track as part of her presidential campaign, and “Freedom” has become a campaign anthem, featured in a new advertisement for Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz.
The four-day convention was hosted by notable figures including Tony Goldwyn, Ana Navarro, Mindy Kaling, and Kerry Washington. The event featured performances from big names like Stevie Wonder, John Legend, and Patti LaBelle, as well as surprise appearances by celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, who encouraged independent voters to make their voices heard. Julia Louis-Dreyfus moderated a daytime panel, adding to the star-studded lineup.
On the third night of the convention, John Legend and Sheila E. honored vice presidential nominee Tim Walz’s home state of Minnesota by performing Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy.” Prince, a Minneapolis native, was remembered during this tribute.
Stevie Wonder also made a surprise appearance in Chicago, performing “Higher Ground” and urging the audience to vote. “This is the moment to remember: when you tell your children where you were and what you did. As we stand between history’s pain and tomorrow’s promises, we must choose courage over complacency. It is time to get up and go vote,” he declared to the crowd.
The Republican National Convention in July featured appearances by celebrities including Hulk Hogan, Kid Rock, and Amber Rose.