The 2024 Democratic National Convention commenced in Chicago on Monday night with a spectacular start, featuring inspiring speeches from former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Joe Biden. The event also showcased captivating performances by Jason Isbell and Mickey Guyton. Among the notable surprises, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, made unexpected appearances that energized the crowd.

However, one of the most memorable moments of the evening occurred during the unveil of a new campaign ad for the Harris/Walz ticket. The ad, scored to Beyoncé's haunting a cappella rendition of the theme song "Freedom," captured the attention of attendees. The powerful track from Beyoncé's Lemonade album has become a symbolic anthem for the late-stage campaign.

The video began with imagery depicting horses running freely on the prairie and trains traversing the expansive desert landscapes of the West. It continued to feature classic Americana images, ranging from impoverished Dust Bowl families to American troops storming the beaches during World War II. The video showcased American flags, the Statue of Liberty, and regular citizens preparing for a day's work. Oscar-nominated actor Jeffrey Wright's voice resounded over the visuals, asking: "What kind of America do we want?"

The ad expertly blended moments from various pivotal events in American history, including the Black Lives Matter protests, the moon landing, and significant movements for Civil Rights, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. As images of Paralympic athletes and individuals of diverse races and abilities filled the screen, Beyoncé's voice soared, belting out the lyrics: "Freedom, freedom, I can't move. Freedom, cut me loose. Singin' freedom, freedom, where are you?"

In contrast to the Republican National Convention's often dark and pessimistic messages, the "Freedom" video exuded hope and unity. It extensively portrayed the tragic January 6th attack on the Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump, emphasizing the need to move forward. Beyoncé's powerful vocals declared, "I'mma keep on running 'cause a winner don't quit on themselves," as footage of Vice President Harris promised, "extremists want to take us back, but we are not going back!"

The four-day convention, scheduled until Thursday, aims to officially nominate Vice President Kamala Harris as the first Black and Asian American woman on the brink of the highest office in the United States. The event promises to be star-studded, featuring renowned celebrity hosts like Kerry Washington, Mindy Kaling, Ana Navarro, and Tony Goldwyn. Special guests such as Julia Louis-Dreyfus, along with performers Jason Isbell and Mickey Guyton, will grace the stage. Notably, James Taylor was unable to perform on the first night due to time constraints.

Highlighting the contrast in support, the Harris campaign has received an abundance of enthusiastic endorsements from A-list celebrities, including Olivia Rodrigo, Barbra Streisand, Megan Thee Stallion, John Legend, Spike Lee, Katy Perry, Charli XCX, P!nk, Cardi B, Kesha, Jane Fonda, Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, and George Clooney.

The Harris/Walz campaign's use of Beyoncé's "Freedom" has garnered full approval from the iconic singer. In stark contrast, President Trump has faced legal actions and cease-and-desist orders from musicians who disapprove of his divisive rhetoric and unauthorized use of their music.

As the Democratic National Convention progresses, the spotlight will shine on Vice President Harris's historic nomination and the star-studded lineup, aiming to inspire unity and progress among party supporters. The convention promises to captivate audiences with its influential voices and powerful messages.

[Video Link: "Freedom" campaign ad]