By Reigha Weaver | Arts & Life Writer
Every election, presidential candidates will choose songs that define their campaign. However, there have been obvious standouts. These five songs transcend the rest with their American pride, uplifting nature and overall vibes.
“9 to 5” by Dolly Parton
Not only was Dolly an American treasure, her music was used in Elizabeth Warren’s 2020 presidential campaign. “9 to 5” has a relatable spirit and catchy chorus that have made it a standout years later.
Parton made the easily recognizable rhythm by clacking her acrylic nails while on set, turning it into a song all of America knows.
“9 to 5” is a campaign song standout; not just because of its satisfying rhythm or catchy lyrics, it’s a standout because it’s a song that all of us were raised on. Especially in the South, if you put on “9 to 5,” everyone is nodding their heads and signing along. And there is no better vibe for your campaign than togetherness.
“I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty
“I Won’t Back Down” was used successfully in several presidential campaigns, and there’s a clear reason why. This song has the spirit of a diamond in the rough, rising against your odds, something Americans like to connect to.
Like Captain America saying “I can do this all day,” “I Won’t Back Down” is standing up yet again to fight. It’s that scrappiness and steadfastness that voters like to see, an everyday person who will fight and not back down for the American people.
“Crazy” by Patsy Cline
This song differs from the rest on this list because unlike the other songs, “Crazy” was a direct response to this candidate’s criticism. Ross Perot used “Crazy,” written by Willie Nelson and performed by Patsy Cline, to address people calling him crazy over his third-party bid.
While the lyrics and messaging are different and less American than the other songs on the list, I think “Crazy” deserves credit. The temerity to address your critics and do so through your campaign song deserves to be acknowledged.
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” has such an optimistic vibe and sound to it. It makes it seem like brighter days are ahead, which is what voters want to feel when choosing their candidate.
Barack Obama used this song in his 2008 campaign, along with his 2012 campaign. Stevie Wonder even played it live at the Democratic National Convention, effectively making “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” Obama’s theme song.
“Freedom” by Beyoncé (feat. Kendrick Lamar)
“Freedom” is a vast departure in sound from the rest of the list, but it evokes the same emotions. Beyoncé’s powerful anthem was used by Kamala Harris in her 2024 presidential campaign. The lyrics demand freedom for herself and others, a very American notion.
It leaves the listener feeling powerful and, well, free. An self-assured, uplifting anthem about freedom and not quitting on yourself is the perfect soundtrack, not just for a candidate, but for America as a whole.
