At a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz on Monday, October 28, in Philadelphia, John Legend sang a moving version of the classic song “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke.
Thousands gathered at the Liacouras Center to hear the Grammy winner’s voice dramatize the themes of hope and resilience
John Legend sang a stunning rendition of Sam Cooke’s A Change is Gonna Come at former President Obama’s campaign rally for VP Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Philadelphia, PA.
I’m not crying, you’re crying!
— Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) October 28, 2024
The mood changed before Legend’s performance, with most attendees appearing emotional. It was also a shock to listeners – especially since the song was written in response to a civil rights movement and it featured prominently in an ongoing political turmoil.
They were praised by countless fans on social media, with one person saying: ‘”I’m not crying, you’re crying!”
Cry here again. This time we white people better show up. We are much better
– Nancy R (@roop17096) October 29, 2024
The protest comes at a particularly difficult time, with an election looming and America facing what some see as an existential threat to democracy.
Rally attendee Louisa Hope said, “We watched from afar, wondering if ‘The American Idea’ would survive this election. But this performance encouraged me.” this morning.”
We watch from afar, wondering if ‘The American Idea’ will survive this election, and that might strike fear into your heart. But this morning Sam Cooke’s rendition of the song encouraged me- you are stronger than the current threat, keep going, wait for better.
— Louisa Hope (@LouisaMayHope) October 29, 2024
Legend’s performance stood out among other audience members, and the backup singers received much praise. “And those backup singers!!!” One fan pointed out that Legend’s layered vocals are “full of strongly contrasting harmonies and backing tracks.”
And those backing singers!!! ❤️❤️
– KD (@noturaverage1) October 28, 2024
Popular social media personality Art Candee posted on Twitter about the event, making the following inspirational comment about the song’s use today, “I will vote as if my rights belong to it because they do!” His statement also comes as voters increasingly behave as if they are being forced to participate in the process.
Rock legend Bruce Springsteen also joined former President Barack Obama and singer John Legend at the campaign rally.
Springsteen performed three solo acoustic songs, including “The Promised Land”, “Land of Hope and Dreams” and “Dancing in the Dark”.
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