The Meaning of Trump’s Rally Music

What does Donald Trump’s rally music say about his appeal? Interpreting a campaign’s musical choices isn’t an easy task. It’s not like campaign managers can get too creative. The music needs to be instantly recognizable, chantable, and, most important, American—if not always in nationality, then at least in mood. As much as I would love to hear one of the more interesting politicians walk up to the podium soundtracked by a stranger American sound—say, the techno of Drexciya, the free jazz of Albert Ayler, or even the abstract folk guitar of John Fahey—it simply isn’t feasible.