When country singer Mickey Guyton was invited to perform at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), she immediately recognized the profound historical significance of the moment. As Vice President Kamala Harris prepared to formally accept her party’s presidential nomination, Guyton was set to share the stage with esteemed artists like James Taylor and Jason Isbell on Monday night.
Guyton, who made history as the first Black woman to receive a Grammy nomination for Best Country Solo Performance in 2021, expressed her deep sense of honor and responsibility in an interview with NEWS. “I love my country so much and to get such an opportunity to bring unity to such an incredible movement is a great honor,” she shared.
The significance of this occasion is not lost on Guyton. Seeing a woman of color, like Harris, with a real chance at becoming President of the United States is a milestone that Guyton once thought might be out of reach within her lifetime. “It’s so inspiring to see someone who is not only exceptionally smart but also happens to look like me, running for the highest office in our country,” Guyton said. “She represents so much to so many and I just think it’s incredible. I never thought I would see a woman be president in my lifetime, and now it seems attainable.”
Reflecting on Harris’ journey, Guyton conveyed her elation and pride. “I’m elated, and it means the world to me to see this AKA (Alpha Kappa Alpha member), biracial lawyer who attended a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), thriving and bringing so much hope to this country,” she added. This sentiment underscores Guyton’s belief in the transformative power of Harris’ candidacy.
Guyton’s own music has been a powerful medium for addressing social issues. Her Grammy-nominated 2020 song, “Black Like Me,” emerged during a summer of nationwide protests following George Floyd’s death, highlighting her commitment to confronting racism. Guyton’s outspoken stance on the discrimination she has faced within the country music industry illustrates her role as a trailblazer for other Black artists in the genre.
In her reflection on performing at the DNC, Guyton emphasized that her participation transcends music. “For me, this is beyond a genre of music. This is about humanity. This is about the culture,” she said. “This is about our country and I feel honored to be able to witness history.”
Guyton also drew a poignant connection between Harris’ candidacy and the legacy of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to seek a major party nomination for president in 1972. “All I have to say is Shirley Chisholm flew so Kamala could soar,” Guyton remarked, recognizing Chisholm’s pioneering role in paving the way for future leaders like Harris.
As Guyton takes the stage at the DNC, her performance is not just an act of entertainment but a symbol of progress and unity, reflecting both her personal journey and the broader historical narrative of empowerment and change in American politics.
