US News
10 Musicians Who Have Given Big to Obama and Democrats
You know about Jay-Z and Beyonce, but here’s 8 others who are backing Obama and the Democrats
By SETH CLINE
September 21, 2012
President Obama with music stars Jay-Z and Beyonce at a fundraiser the couple hosted for the president’s re-election campaign.
In the process of taking control of the money race, President Obama has had several high-profile supporters, some of whom made it to the Democratic National Convention earlier this month. Obama’s superstar support came to the forefront this week when the first couple of entertainment, Jay-Z and Beyonce, hosted Obama and the First Lady for a pricey fundraiser in New York City.
“To Bey and Jay, thank you for your friendship,” Obama said to the event’s hosts.
In light of the high-powered friendship, here’s a list of 10 of the President’s most famous musical supporters.
Jay-Z ”“ The rap mogul hasn’t contributed to Obama directly, but recently hosted a $40,000-per-person fundraiser that generated around $4 million for the president. There’s also the use of his 40-40 nightclub for the night, an in-kind contribution worth thousands on its own.
Beyonce Knowles ”“ Like Jay, Bey hasn’t’ contributed but bundled $4 million for the president via their recent fundraiser.
Fiona Apple ”“ The indie songstress, who was recently arrested for hash possession, has given $500 to President Obama this year.
Gwen Stefani ”“ No Doubt front-woman gave the president the $5,000 maximum last month.
will.i.am ”“ The Black Eyed Peas rapper has given Obama the $5,000 maximum (to candidates) and the Democratic Party the $61,600 maximum (to national parties).
John Legend ”“ Soulful R&B singer has given the Democrats $25,000 this cycle.
James Taylor ”“ Folk singer has given the Democrats the $30,800 maximum this cycle.
Questlove – The drummer for rap band The Roots, the house band for Jimmy Fallon’s talk show, has given Obama the $5,000 maximum and the party $1,000 this cycle.
Bette Midler – The actress and diva has given the maximum $5,000 to Obama and $30,800 to the Democratic Party this cycle.
Randy Newman ”“ The singer-songwriter and film score composer has given $7,000 to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee this cycle, and recently released a song decrying racism in those who oppose President Obama.
Jason Mraz ”“ Singer-songwriter has contributed $500 to Obama this cycle.
*All data comes from the Center for Responsive Politics.
Seth Cline is a reporter with U.S. News and World Report. Contact him at scline@usnews.com or on Twitter.
