Grammy Award-winning singers James Taylor and Jason Isbell, along with Grammy-nominated country artist Mickey Guyton, are set to perform at the Democratic National Convention on Monday night at Chicago’s United Center, as confirmed by DNC organizers.
The event will also feature speeches from President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The convention is scheduled to take place from Monday through Thursday, where delegates from the Democratic Party will officially nominate their candidates for president and vice president.
James Taylor, a legendary performer, will be the final act of the night. He previously performed at the DNC in 2012 and was seen warming up at the United Center, sharing his rendition of Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” Taylor’s notable hits include “Fire and Rain” and “How Sweet It Is.” Following the release of his album “American Standard” in 2020, he became the first artist to have a Top 10 album in each of the past six decades, earning him a sixth Grammy. Taylor is also recognized as a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and has received the Kennedy Center Honors and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His political activism dates back to a 1972 concert for George McGovern, and he remains engaged in social issues.
Jason Isbell is also set to take the DNC stage. Dressed in a navy tuxedo, he is expected to perform “Something More Than Free,” showcasing his exceptional guitar skills. Isbell, a six-time Grammy winner, is known for his work with the 400 Unit and his previous stint with Drive-By Truckers. His 2022 release, “Weathervanes,” marked the first album he self-produced since achieving sobriety, a journey he has openly discussed. Isbell is known for his songwriting talents and recent acting role in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” A recent HBO documentary, “Running With Our Eyes Closed,” documented his artistic and personal struggles.
Mickey Guyton expressed her excitement about performing at the convention through social media. She is a four-time Grammy nominee and made history as the first Black female solo artist nominated in a country category. She gained widespread acclaim for her song “Black Like Me” in 2021 and became the first Black woman to host the Academy of Country Music Awards. Guyton performed the national anthem at Super Bowl LVI in 2022, and her upcoming album, “House on Fire,” is set to release next month. She aims to use her platform to advocate for underrepresented voices within the industry.
Guyton is expected to deliver an emotional performance of her anthem “All American” at the event.