Incumbent Gov. Ned Lamont and state Sen. Ryan Fazio, both of Greenwich, shared their music and reading preferences with The Connecticut Mirror ahead of the general election. Lamont, who gravitates toward country breakout Ella Langley and enjoys Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” during workouts, said some of his favorite songs are pieces he grew up with, including music from the Grateful Dead and the Rolling Stones. Others, like Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer,” were added through his wife, Annie Lamont, children, and grandchildren. He also included songs like the Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling” and Walk The Moon’s “Shut Up and Dance” for their danceable qualities.
Fazio, who has long favored Bob Marley and the Wailers to soundtrack his campaign events, recently added Bad Bunny to his playlist. Both candidates expressed appreciation for Dolly Parton, though they may differ on her greatest song. Lamont included Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” for its themes of workplace equity and female empowerment, while Fazio’s playlist also features Marley’s “Get Up, Stand Up” for its revolutionary message.
Stephen Dyson, a professor of political science at the University of Connecticut, noted that candidates’ music and reading selections can signal political leanings. He referenced past instances where political figures used music to appear more relatable, such as when former Prime Minister David Cameron cited The Smiths and Gordon Brown mentioned Arctic Monkeys. Dyson acknowledged that sharing playlists and reading lists can be endearing, as it suggests a personal connection to voters.
Lamont said music has an important place in his soul, and he enjoys recommending books and songs that have shaped his political philosophy. Fazio similarly described how music and reading have informed his worldview and helped him through challenging moments on the campaign trail.
