Kamala Harris Concedes with Grace as Music Sets the Tone for Election Night
In a historic and emotional Election Night, Vice President Kamala Harris returned to her roots at Howard University, where she first launched her political career. Despite the ultimate victory of former President Donald Trump, Harris chose to conclude her campaign with dignity, surrounded by supporters and the vibrant energy of her alma mater. Music played a pivotal role in this poignant evening, with DJ Chubb E. Swag curating a powerful soundtrack that reflected both hope and resilience.
As the night unfolded on November 5, DJ Chubb E. Swag, a fellow Howard alum and seasoned DJ known for his work with artists like Nipsey Hussle, took center stage. His task was monumental: to set the mood for a night filled with anticipation, heartbreak, and ultimately, a concession speech that would resonate with millions. “I wanted to tell a story about perseverance with the music,” he shared in an interview. “It was about making a way out of no way.”
The soundtrack for the evening was a carefully crafted blend of classic and contemporary tracks, featuring songs from The Isley Brothers, Chaka Khan, Beyoncé, and Kendrick Lamar. Each selection was chosen not just for its rhythm but for its emotional weight, aiming to uplift spirits even as the election results began to turn against Harris. “I wanted to keep hope alive during Election Night,” DJ Chubb E. Swag explained. “It was about telling a story of resistance in the face of despair.”
As the results rolled in and the mood shifted, DJ Chubb E. Swag adapted his setlist to reflect the changing atmosphere. On Election Night, the energy was high, but by the time of Harris’s concession speech, the tone had to be more subdued. “I still got some energetic records in there, but it was definitely different,” he noted. His playlist included tracks that spoke to the heart of the moment, like 2Pac’s “Changes” and Chaka Khan’s “What Cha’ Gonna Do For Me?”—songs that resonated deeply with the crowd.
Harris’s decision to concede at Howard University was a powerful statement of solidarity with her supporters. “Win or lose, I’m going down with the gang,” she declared, emphasizing her commitment to her community. DJ Chubb E. Swag felt a profound responsibility to honor that sentiment through his music. “I wanted to make sure her transition, whether it was in or out, was met with nothing but love,” he said.
The crowd at Howard University was a mix of emotions—excitement, heartbreak, and a sense of unity. DJ Chubb E. Swag recalled the energy in the air, describing it as “electric.” He noted the challenge of lifting spirits when many were already feeling defeated. “It was like trying to lift somebody out of despair, and they don’t wanna leave that emotional space just yet,” he reflected.
As the night came to a close, DJ Chubb E. Swag’s role as the master of ceremonies took on a deeper meaning. He understood the weight of the moment, likening it to a funeral—an honor and a duty filled with sadness. “I have so much respect for Kamala,” he said. “She fought her life out for the last 100 or so days for us. When everybody else was telling her what to do, she was doing everything in her power to make something shake.”
In the end, the music served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the community. DJ Chubb E. Swag’s setlist was not just a collection of songs; it was a narrative of hope, struggle, and the enduring spirit of those who believe in change. As Harris concluded her campaign, the echoes of the night lingered, a testament to the power of music in shaping our stories and our futures.
