Who was the DJ at DNC? Meet DJ Cassidy – The Music Maestro Who Transformed the 2024 DNC Roll Call into a Celebration

When the Democratic National Convention (DNC) unveiled its 2024 roll call, something extraordinary happened. What is usually a formal, ceremonial event was transformed into a musical celebration that had people talking across the country.

The man behind this transformation?

At the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday night, DJ Cassidy, a Grammy-nominated performer and the first-ever “musical maestro” of a convention roll call, took the stage. He skillfully introduced each state and its musical artist, turning the roll call into a vibrant, music-filled celebration.

DJ Cassidy, a legendary DJ with a reputation for making moments unforgettable. Here’s how DJ Cassidy brought music, energy, and a sense of celebration to the political stage.

Who was the DJ at the DNC? A New Era for the DNC Roll Call

Traditionally, the DNC roll call is a formal procedure where each state pledges its delegates to the party’s presidential and vice-presidential nominees. In 2024, however, the DNC wanted to infuse the process with a celebratory atmosphere, reflecting the unity and diversity of the nation. To achieve this, they called on DJ Cassidy, who was more than up to the task.

DJ Cassidy kicked off the event with Sister Sledge’s classic hit, “We Are Family,” setting the tone for what would be a night filled with music that represented each state in unique and meaningful ways. His role wasn’t just to play background music; it was to craft a narrative through songs, guiding the audience through the 50 states and their distinctive cultures.

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He Sings Songs for Every State

What made this roll call stand out was the music DJ Cassidy chose to represent each state. From iconic classics to modern hits, each song was carefully selected to resonate with the state’s identity. For California, Tupac Shakur’s “California Love” boomed through the convention, while New York was celebrated with Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ “Empire State of Mind.” [Full Songs List Here]

Some of the more unique moments included Vermont’s delegation, represented by an instrumental version of Noah Kahan’s “Stick Season,” and Lil Jon making a live appearance to perform “Turn Down for What” during Georgia’s segment. DJ Cassidy’s thoughtful music choices made each state’s moment in the spotlight feel both special and connected to a larger celebration of America.

Who Is DJ Cassidy?

While DJ Cassidy might have been a fresh face for some, he has been a powerhouse in the music and entertainment industry for years. According to latimes, His career began as a teenager, spinning records at school events before moving on to high-profile gigs. A favorite of Democratic political circles, DJ Cassidy was called upon to DJ for both of Barack Obama‘s inauguration ceremonies, as well as for milestone events like President Obama’s 50th birthday and Michelle Obama’s birthday party at the White House.

Beyond politics, Cassidy has played at some of the most exclusive events in the world. His crowning achievement? Performing at Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s wedding—a testament to his status as one of the most sought-after DJs on the global stage.

The Man Behind the Music

As per USA Today, For DJ Cassidy, music is more than a profession; it’s a passion that dates back to his childhood. By the age of 10, DJ Cassidy had already asked his parents for turntables and a mixer, and his love of music only grew from there. He became a student of music, exploring genres from hip hop to classic hits, and studied the art of making people move.

This dedication to his craft was evident during the 2024 DNC roll call. What might have seemed like a spontaneous celebration actually took weeks of meticulous planning. Cassidy worked closely with the DNC team, ensuring that the music was not only appropriate but also meaningful. “The whole night was truly surreal,” Cassidy later told Jen Psaki in an interview.

Redefining Political Events

DJ Cassidy’s work at the 2024 DNC wasn’t just about playing songs; it was about creating a shared experience. In the past, political roll calls have been dry, procedural affairs, but Cassidy redefined what they could be—vibrant, fun, and celebratory. His work has set a new standard for how music can be used to elevate political events and connect with people on a deeper level.

Given the success of the night, many speculate that DJ Cassidy may be called upon again in future political conventions. Whether or not he returns, his impact on the 2024 DNC roll call will be remembered as a game-changing moment in the intersection of music and politics.

DJ Cassidy at the DNC – FAQ

1. Who is DJ Cassidy?

DJ Cassidy is a renowned DJ and music producer with a long history of performing at high-profile events, particularly within Democratic politics. He has deejayed at major events such as Barack Obama’s inaugurations, the 50th birthdays of both Barack and Michelle Obama, and the wedding of Jay-Z and Beyoncé. He is known for his vibrant, celebratory style that crosses multiple music genres.

2. What role did DJ Cassidy play at the 2024 Democratic National Convention?

At the 2024 DNC, DJ Cassidy served as the “musical maestro” for the convention’s ceremonial roll call, becoming the first to integrate music into the traditional roll call event. He introduced musical performances and played songs that represented each state as delegates pledged their votes for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.

3. What kind of music did DJ Cassidy play during the DNC roll call?

DJ Cassidy played a unique song to represent each state. For example, Tennessee delegates heard Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5,” California was represented by Tupac’s “California Love,” and Vermont was honored with an instrumental version of Noah Kahan’s “Stick Season.” He also welcomed the crowd with Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family.”

4. How long did it take to plan DJ Cassidy’s performance at the DNC?

DJ Cassidy revealed that the event took four weeks of meticulous planning to execute successfully. Despite the seemingly spontaneous and celebratory nature of the evening, careful coordination was required to align music with each state’s presentation.

5. What made DJ Cassidy’s role at the 2024 DNC unique?

Music had never been a part of a convention’s roll call before 2024. DJ Cassidy’s involvement was groundbreaking, as he transformed the traditional, often routine, political event into a festive celebration, full of music and energy. This new format was highly praised and contributed to the event’s success.

6. How did DJ Cassidy start his career in music?

DJ Cassidy started deejaying at a young age, receiving his first turntables and mixer on his 10th birthday. He fell in love with music at age five after discovering classic hip-hop records. He later honed his skills by studying vinyl records and learning about music production across different genres.

7. What was the public’s reaction to DJ Cassidy’s performance at the DNC?

The performance was widely praised for turning a “normally not fun or cool” political event into something grand, fun, and full of life, according to comments by former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki. The “truly surreal” atmosphere was a highlight of the night.

8. Will DJ Cassidy return for future Democratic conventions?

Although it hasn’t been confirmed, DJ Cassidy’s success at the 2024 DNC suggests he may be invited back in future years to continue his role as the “musical maestro.” His creativity and ability to bring a party-like atmosphere to political events make him a likely candidate for future conventions.

A Musical Legacy

DJ Cassidy’s career is a testament to the power of music to bring people together. From school dances to presidential inaugurations and now, to one of the most memorable DNC roll calls in history, Cassidy continues to leave his mark on the world stage. With his ability to turn even the most mundane events into unforgettable experiences, DJ Cassidy’s legacy as a music maestro is only just beginning.