Chicago, IL — Pop sensation Pink captivated audiences with a poignant performance of her 2017 hit “What About Us” at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago on Thursday night. The emotional rendition, which marked a departure from the high-octane acrobatics typical of Pink’s live shows, featured a special duet with her daughter, Willow Sage Hart.
As the performance unfolded, Pink and Willow, accompanied by a soulful ensemble of backup singers, delivered a moving rendition of the track’s powerful lyrics: “We are searchlights, we can see in the dark / We are rockets, pointed up at the stars / We are billions of beautiful hearts / And you sold us down the river too far.” The stage was bathed in a soft pink light, adding a visually striking touch to the emotionally charged atmosphere.
Earlier in the day, Pink and Willow were spotted rehearsing for the event, demonstrating their commitment to delivering a performance that resonated deeply with the audience. The 2017 “What About Us” music video, which addresses social justice issues and the struggles faced by marginalized communities during the Trump administration, served as a poignant backdrop to the night’s performance.
Pink’s involvement in the DNC follows her recent endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. Last month, Pink participated in a groundbreaking fundraising Zoom call that not only set an attendance record but also raised nearly $2 million for Harris’s campaign. During the call, Pink emphasized the importance of amplifying women’s voices in the political arena, stating, “We are in this … and I’m just really grateful that us women are going to have a voice, and we’ve always made our voices heard, and now it’s time to just get extra loud.”
The DNC has been a hub of musical talent this year, showcasing performances from a diverse range of artists. On the third night, John Legend and Sheila E. delivered a tribute to Minnesota with a stirring rendition of Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy,” while Stevie Wonder brought his signature touch to “Higher Ground.” Maren Morris also graced the stage, adding to the night’s dynamic lineup. The previous evening saw a surprise performance from Lil Jon, who energized the crowd with his hit “Turn Down for What” during the states’ roll call.
Pink’s advocacy for social issues, including LGBTQ rights and reproductive health, aligns with Vice President Harris’s own commitment to these causes. Pink’s support for the Biden-Harris ticket was also evident in 2020 when she performed at the virtual “I Will Vote” event, further solidifying her role as a prominent voice in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
As Pink and Willow Sage’s heartfelt performance echoed through the convention hall, it was clear that the power of music could unite and inspire a nation at a pivotal moment in its history. The emotional connection between mother and daughter, combined with the song’s message of resilience and hope, left an indelible mark on the DNC audience and underscored Pink’s enduring influence as an artist and activist.