On the second night of the Democratic National Convention, a loud roll call vote was held by all 50 states and U.S. territories, with each state also representing its own territorial representative.
The Ohio delegation chose “Green Light” by Springfield’s John Legend. The song, which also features Outkast’s Andre 3000 – who is currently touring the country to promote his flute project – appeared on Legend’s third album, 2008’s Evolver.
The song peaked at number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 4 on the Dance chart. But does it really scream Ohio? Reactions from the ever-reliable and reasonable folks on social media ranged from “Who the hell chose this song?” to “I don’t like this Ohio song.”
Sure, it’s no Lil’ Jon, but that’s a harsh criticism for a recognized hit.
While we’re not here to bash one of Ohio’s most successful contemporary R&B singers (and a guy who’s literally named “Legend”), Ohio’s choice seemed to lack the recognizability of the songs of some of his other most popular sons and daughters.
Without much comment and in no particular order, here are some other Ohio songs that represent Ohio pretty well. If we’re missing any, or you just want to complain about our selections, please email your feedback to [email protected].
“Gold on the Ceiling” by The Black Keys from Akron
Dayton Funk legends “OHIO” of the Ohio Players
Canton R&B group O’Jay’s “Love Train”
“Talkin’ Bout a Revolution” by Tracy Chapman from Cleveland
The Pretenders with Chrissie Hynde from Akron “Message of Love”
Akron’s Devo “(I can’t get) satisfaction”
Kid Cudi from Cleveland (ft. MGMT from Brooklyn) “Pursuit of Happiness”
“Strechin’ Out” by Cincinnati native Bootsy Collins
“Crossroads” by Cleveland’s Bone Thugs N Harmony
James Gang (founded in Cleveland, with Joe Walsh, a graduate of Kent State University) “Funk #49”
Cleveland’s Bobby Womack sings “If You Think You’re Lonely Now”
Rascal Flatts, with Columbus locals, on “Life is a Highway”
“That Lady, Pts. 1 & 2” by The Isley Brothers from Cincinnati
Dayton’s Guided By Voices “Vote for me, fool”
Columbus’ Twenty One Pilots sing “Ride”
Cleveland native Trent Reznor and his Nine Inch Nails “We’re In This Together”
Runners-up
Cleveland Rocks by Ian Hunter
He probably won’t get the job because the author and singer Ian Hunter of Mott the Hoople is from England.
The McCoys “Hang in there, Sloopy”
Although they are popular at Ohio State University football games, the McCoys are actually from Indiana.
