The First Rock and Roll President - The White House Hit Parade With Jimmy Carter
Forget Ted Nugent, Kid Rock and Kanya West. America once had a president who brought Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, The Allman Brothers, and Johnny Cash to the White House.
Jimmy Carter's presidency was marked by an unprecedented infusion of music into the White House, reflecting his deep appreciation for the arts and his belief in music's power to bridge divides. His tenure from 1977 to 1981 saw all sorts of musical genres and legendary artists visit the halls and lawns of the presidential residence, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry that rocked with the American public.
A Symphony of Genres
Carter's musical inclusivity was evident in the eclectic mix of performances he hosted. From classical maestros like pianist Vladimir Horowitz and guitarist Andrés Segovia to jazz luminaries such as Dizzy Gillespie. From James Brown to Paul Simon the White House became a stage for excellence. Carter's personal friendships with artists like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and the Allman Brothers Band further underscored his commitment to celebrating American music in all its forms.
Historic Performances
One of the most notable events was the White House Jazz Festival on June 18, 1978. This gathering featured a constellation of jazz greats, including Gillespie, who famously invited Carter onstage to sing "Salt Peanuts," showcasing the president's willingness to engage directly with the music and its performers.
Cultural Milestones
In June 1979, Carter hosted the first Black Music Month gathering on the South Lawn, highlighting the contributions of African-American artists to the nation's musical heritage. This event not only celebrated the richness of Black music but also acknowledged its profound impact on American culture.
It Started Back In Georgia
In 1971, shortly after becoming governor, Carter championed the designation of “Georgia on My Mind” as the state’s official song. The tune, originally written by Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Gorrell in 1930, had already gained worldwide fame thanks to Ray Charles’s soulful rendition in 1960. Charles, a Georgia native, had imbued the song with a deep emotional resonance, transforming it into a heartfelt anthem for Georgians and a symbol of the state’s cultural identity.
Carter saw the song as a unifying force for Georgia during a time of social and political change. At a state legislative ceremony to make the song official, Carter invited Ray Charles to perform it live. Charles’s emotional performance before an audience that included lawmakers and citizens alike was met with thunderous applause and tears. It wasn’t just a song—it was a moment of reconciliation and pride for a state with a fraught history.
By embracing the song and its iconic performer, Carter sent a message about the power of music to transcend divisions. It was a gesture that bridged Georgia’s past and future, connecting its deep cultural roots with a vision of unity and pride.
From Georgia to the White House
This story of Carter’s love for “Georgia on My Mind” foreshadowed his presidency’s embrace of music as a tool for connection and healing. Just as the song united Georgians, music became a central part of Carter’s approach to national and global diplomacy. His belief in music’s ability to reach across divides was evident in the events he hosted at the White House, which brought together a dazzling array of artists from every corner of America’s musical landscape.
Personal Engagement
Carter's personal engagement with music extended beyond formal events. He installed a high-fidelity sound system in the White House, and expanded the White House record collection by ten times including Led Zepplin and The Band, often listening to classical music for hours. His interactions with musicians were marked by genuine appreciation; after one event where attendees were inattentive, he promised the performers a return engagement with an attentive audience, demonstrating his respect for their artistry.
Check out Jimmy Carter’s Top 12 List from the CNN Documentary Rock and Roll President. Jimmy Carter’s. And here’s another Jimmy Carter Top Ten:
"Georgia on My Mind" – Ray Charles
Carter’s personal anthem and Georgia’s official state song, thanks to his efforts as governor. A soulful reminder of home and pride."Daniel and the Sacred Harp" – The Band
As a fan of The Band, Carter appreciated their rootsy, reflective storytelling, and this track stands out as a poignant nod to Southern history."Will the Circle Be Unbroken" – Johnny Cash
A timeless folk hymn embodying Carter’s faith and belief in unity, sung by artists he admired."Salt Peanuts" – Dizzy Gillespie
Played live at the White House Jazz Festival in 1978, with Carter famously joining Gillespie on stage for an unforgettable moment."Blowin’ in the Wind" – Bob Dylan
A reflection of Carter’s admiration for Dylan’s social conscience and poetic activism."Margaritaville" – Jimmy Buffett
Buffett was a friend and visitor to the White House, and this classic embodies Carter’s laid-back, everyman charm."Ramblin’ Man" – The Allman Brothers Band
Carter’s friendship with the Allmans helped fuel his campaign, and this Southern rock staple is a fitting tribute to their bond."Amazing Grace" – Willie Nelson
A cornerstone of Carter’s faith, often played at events he attended, representing his unwavering belief in redemption and love."Fanfare for the Common Man" – Aaron Copland
A majestic piece reflecting Carter’s populist ideals and his respect for the everyday American."Take It Easy" – Eagles
Reflecting Carter’s ability to connect with America’s youth and his own relaxed, genuine approach to life and leadership.
Legacy of Musical Integration
Carter actually quoted from Dylan’s 1965 record “It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)” in his acceptance speech for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1976.
Carter's integration of music into the fabric of his presidency set a precedent for future administrations. The PBS series "In Performance at the White House," which began during his tenure in 1978, continues to showcase diverse musical talents, reflecting Carter's enduring influence on the cultural landscape of the nation's capital.
Through his unwavering support and celebration of music, Jimmy Carter not only enriched the cultural life of the White House but also used the universal language of music to foster unity and understanding across the nation.
For a glimpse into the musical vibrancy of Carter's White House, you might enjoy this recording of the 1978 Jazz Festival:
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, had a deep appreciation of music, particularly jazz, rock, and country. He often spoke about the unifying power of music and its role in shaping culture and politics. Here are a few notable Carter quotes about music:
On Music as a Universal Language
"Music is the universal language. It embodies everything that brings us together as people—our history, our values, our hopes and dreams.”
On Willie Nelson
Carter famously had a close friendship with Willie Nelson and once quipped:
“Willie Nelson became one of my closest friends, and I don't think there’s a musician alive who has brought more joy to the American people than Willie.”
On Jazz
"Jazz has always been a way of bringing people together. Its improvisation and freedom reflect the best of what we strive for as a society—openness and creativity.”