Lil Jon energized the Democratic National Convention with an exciting performance during the roll call for his home state of Georgia on Tuesday night. The Atlanta rapper made an appearance at the United Center in Chicago, performing his popular track “Turn Down for What” to rally the Georgia delegation.
During the roll call, each state announced its delegates in support of Vice President Kamala Harris as the presidential nominee and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Harris had previously been confirmed as the presidential nominee through a virtual roll call in early August, making the August 20 roll call mainly ceremonial, which the DNC enhanced with a DJ and celebrity appearances to celebrate each state’s delegation.
Georgia showcased a vibrant presence with Lil Jon performing live, as he excitedly addressed the audience, declaring, “Yeaaaaahhhhhhh! Ladies and gentlemen, we are here tonight to officially nominate Kamala Harris for president! DNC, turn down for what!” He followed this by performing his hit song and chanting, “We’re not goin’ back!” in reference to one of Harris’ campaign slogans. He also cleverly modified his famous line from “Get Low” to sing, “VP Harris … gimme the Walz!”
After Lil Jon’s performance, Georgia Representative Nikema Williams, chairwoman of the state’s Democratic Party, took the podium to cast their votes. “In the spirit of good trouble, Georgia casts 123 votes for the next president of the United States, Kamala Harris!” she stated, referencing the phrase popularized by the late civil rights icon and former Georgia congressman John Lewis.
Other celebrities also represented their states during the roll call. Actor Sean Astin, known for his role in “Rudy,” spoke on behalf of Indiana, while actor Wendell Pierce represented Louisiana. Filmmaker Spike Lee was present for New York, and actress Eva Longoria spoke for Texas.
The DJ played songs representative of each state during the introductions, including Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” for New Jersey, Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” for Michigan, and the Dropkick Murphys’ “Shipping Up to Boston” for Massachusetts. Wisconsin featured House of Pain’s “Jump Around,” a staple at University of Wisconsin football games, to create an energetic atmosphere.