You can trust Zohran Mamdani with the aux

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a figure now synonymous with navigating the complexities of urban governance and advocating for significant policy shifts, harbors a past that resonates with the rhythm and pulse of the music world. While his public persona is currently defined by fiscal responsibility and a vocal stance on international affairs, Mamdani’s formative years were marked by a deep engagement with music, even extending to a stint as a “C-list rapper” under the moniker Young Cardamom. His musical roots are not merely a footnote but a foundational element that continues to inform his perspective and connect him with the contemporary cultural landscape. Evidence of this connection can be found in his past performance at the esteemed Nyege Nyege festival in Uganda in 2016, a testament to his early immersion in diverse global music scenes.

Mamdani’s current engagement with music transcends nostalgia. In recent interviews, he has consistently demonstrated a keen awareness of emerging and established artists across a broad spectrum of genres. His appreciation extends to critically acclaimed, often less mainstream artists, including Canadian hip-hop artist k-os, Pakistani artist Shamoon Ismail, and the Ugandan duo Radio & Weasel. Perhaps most notably, Mamdani has publicly credited the Punjabi-American indie rapper Heems as a significant inspiration behind his decision to enter politics. This revelation underscores the profound influence that art and culture can wield in shaping individual trajectories and public service aspirations.

This exploration delves into ten of Zohran Mamdani’s most cherished musical selections, spanning from iconic hip-hop anthems to contemporary pop and Broadway show tunes, revealing a rich and diverse sonic palate that reflects both his personal journey and his multifaceted understanding of artistic expression.

The Genesis of Expression: Jay-Z’s The Blueprint

The earliest discernible influence on Mayor Mamdani’s musical journey is none other than the rap mogul Jay-Z. In a public address earlier this month, Mamdani shared a deeply personal anecdote: the first album he ever received was a clean version of Jay-Z’s seminal 2001 masterpiece, The Blueprint. He described the album as a foundational text, stating, "It taught me freedom of expression." This formative experience highlights the album’s significant role in shaping Mamdani’s understanding of artistic liberty and its power.

The impact of Jay-Z’s work on Mamdani is further underscored by his appreciation for the rapper’s recent reunion performance with Nas at Yankee Stadium. Mamdani characterized this event as "a moment that many New Yorkers will hold dear for years," signaling a shared cultural touchstone for the city’s residents and a reflection of his own connection to the city’s hip-hop heritage. The parallel drawn between Jay-Z’s command of the music industry and Mamdani’s leadership in New York City, through the lens of the iconic lyric "run this town," subtly emphasizes his ambition and his perceived ability to navigate and lead. The initial release of The Blueprint in July 2001, amidst a burgeoning era of mainstream hip-hop, was met with critical acclaim for its innovative production and lyrical prowess, solidifying Jay-Z’s status as a cultural force.

Pop Sensibility and Political Hyping: Kim Petras’ "Like Your Look"

Mayor Mamdani’s musical preferences extend beyond the realm of hip-hop to embrace contemporary pop artists, demonstrating a broad appreciation for diverse sonic landscapes. In an interview at the commencement of this year, when asked about music that energizes him, Mamdani revealed, "My wife prefers calmer music in the morning. I, for some reason, want to listen to Kim Petras or Lil Wayne or Madonna." He specifically highlighted Kim Petras’ track, "Like Your Look," as "a great song." This choice indicates an affinity for artists who push boundaries and offer a vibrant, modern sound.

Kim Petras, a German singer known for her trans identity and her catchy, often dance-pop oriented music, represents a contemporary voice in the music industry. Her song "Like Your Look," with its infectious beat and confident lyrical themes, aligns with an energetic and forward-looking sensibility. The inclusion of Lil Wayne and Madonna in his morning playlist further illustrates Mamdani’s inclination towards artists with significant cultural impact and distinct artistic identities. This eclectic mix suggests that Mamdani utilizes music not just for personal enjoyment but also as a source of motivation and inspiration.

An Anthem for the Empire State: Ja Rule ft. Fat Joe & Jadakiss’ "New York"

Mamdani’s deep-rooted connection to New York City is palpable in his musical choices, particularly his fondness for hip-hop anthems that celebrate the city. During a TrackStar interview in the lead-up to the mayoral election last year, amidst discussions of artists like Mobb Deep and The Game, Mamdani divulged a deeply personal aspiration: "My dream is walking out [as New York mayor] to ‘New York’ by Ja Rule and Jadakiss." He later made good on this promise, a testament to his commitment to his declared intentions. This choice of entrance music was particularly resonant, given the long-standing rivalry between Ja Rule and his political adversary, 50 Cent, whom Mamdani had previously debated on the imposition of a wealth tax during his campaign.

50 Cent’s public reaction on Instagram, stating, "Of course he would walk out to that fool. His [wealth tax] plan won’t affect [Ja Rule]. He ain’t getting no money LOL," added a layer of celebrity commentary and political subtext to Mamdani’s musical selection. The song "New York," released in 2004, became an enduring ode to the city, capturing its energy and grit. Its inclusion by Mamdani served as a powerful statement of his identity and his connection to the city’s cultural fabric, resonating with a populace familiar with the track’s ubiquitous presence in the city’s soundscape.

A Nod to Heritage: Tata Young’s "Dhoom Machale"

Beyond the dominant genres of hip-hop and pop, Mayor Mamdani’s musical landscape also incorporates elements that honor his Indian heritage. While his mayoral walk-out music featured a quintessential New York hip-hop track, his subsequent walk-off was marked by a vibrant nod to his roots: the Bollywood anthem "Dhoom Machale," from the 2004 action film Dhoom. As the son of acclaimed Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, Mamdani’s connection to Indian cinema and culture is a significant aspect of his identity. This was further emphasized during his 2025 electoral campaign, which notably featured multiple posters inspired by Bollywood aesthetics, a deliberate and culturally resonant choice.

The inclusion of "Dhoom Machale," a high-energy track synonymous with celebratory and dynamic moments in Indian cinema, showcases Mamdani’s ability to weave his diverse cultural background into his public persona. It signifies a conscious effort to represent and acknowledge the multifaceted identity of New York City itself, a melting pot of global cultures. The film Dhoom, released in 2004, was a commercial success in India and garnered international attention, further solidifying the song’s cultural reach.

A Deep Cut for a Deep Thinker: Taylor Swift’s "Only The Young"

In a surprising yet telling choice, Mayor Mamdani has expressed a significant appreciation for the global music phenomenon Taylor Swift, specifically her less commercially ubiquitous track, "Only The Young." While Swift’s massive popularity is undeniable, this particular song, released as a promotional single for her 2020 documentary Miss Americana, represents a more introspective and politically charged facet of her artistry. Mamdani reportedly discovered the song during a period of intense engagement with Swift’s music in 2021, to the extent that she dominated 12 of his top 100 songs playlist for that year.

Mamdani has referenced "Only The Young" as one of three songs that encapsulate his mayoral campaign, underscoring its thematic relevance to his political journey. The song’s lyrical content, often interpreted as a call to action and an anthem for younger generations engaged in political discourse, resonates with Mamdani’s own activism. Furthermore, his announcement that he would be listening to the track in honor of Taylor Swift’s recent marriage to Travis Kelce demonstrates a continued, albeit perhaps more personal, connection to the artist and her work. The song’s release in January 2020, coinciding with a period of heightened political engagement in the United States, further contextualizes its potential appeal to someone actively involved in the political arena.

The Melancholy Resonance of Broadway: Dear Evan Hansen‘s "Waving Through A Window"

Mayor Mamdani’s musical tastes demonstrate a remarkable breadth, extending into the realm of Broadway musicals. Last year, he revealed his admiration for theatrical productions, noting that he would listen to soundtracks from Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen during his commutes to Albany in 2025. His particular favorite from Dear Evan Hansen is Ben Platt’s poignant rendition of "Waving Through A Window." This selection reveals an appreciation for narratives that explore themes of connection, isolation, and the human experience, common threads in Mamdani’s own public discourse.

"Waving Through A Window," the opening number of Dear Evan Hansen, has become an anthem for those feeling unseen or struggling to connect. Its introspective lyrics and soaring melody speak to a universal sense of longing and the desire to be acknowledged. Mamdani’s affinity for this song, alongside the revolutionary historical narrative of Hamilton, suggests a deep engagement with storytelling and its power to convey complex emotions and societal issues. The Broadway production of Dear Evan Hansen, which premiered in 2016, garnered critical acclaim and multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical, for its moving portrayal of adolescent anxiety and the search for belonging.

A Blast from the Past: Eiffel 65’s "Too Much of Heaven"

Reflecting on his early musical experiences, Mayor Mamdani shared his fondness for the Italian eurodance group Eiffel 65. He recounted purchasing their music from bootleg CD vendors outside Tower Records, a common practice in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While many associate Eiffel 65 primarily with their global hit "Blue (Da Ba Dee)," Mamdani specifically cited "Too Much of Heaven" as another "great song." This choice highlights his engagement with the dance music culture of his youth and a willingness to revisit and appreciate music from that era.

Eiffel 65’s distinctive electronic sound, characterized by synthesized vocals and infectious rhythms, was a hallmark of the eurodance genre. "Too Much of Heaven," released in 1999, embodies this sound, offering a catchy and upbeat listening experience. Mamdani’s recollection of purchasing music from street vendors paints a nostalgic picture of his formative years, emphasizing his early exposure to a wide range of musical influences, often outside the mainstream retail channels. This anecdote also underscores the enduring appeal of music acquired through personal discovery and a sense of cultural immersion.

Reflective Rhythms: Kacey Musgraves’ Golden Hour

Mayor Mamdani’s musical discernment extends to contemporary country music, with a particular admiration for Kacey Musgraves. While Musgraves’ latest album, Middle of Nowhere, may be charting globally, Mamdani confessed this month his continued appreciation for her breakout 2018 album, Golden Hour. He shared, "If I’m feeling reflective, [I] throw on some Kacey Musgraves." This choice suggests that Mamdani finds solace and introspection in Musgraves’ genre-bending, critically acclaimed work.

Golden Hour, released in 2018, was a commercial and critical success, lauded for its atmospheric production, lyrical honesty, and fusion of country, pop, and disco influences. Its themes of love, nature, and personal growth resonate with a reflective mood, aligning with Mamdani’s description. The album’s widespread appeal and critical acclaim, including the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, indicate its significant impact on contemporary music. Mamdani’s preference for this album, even amidst newer releases, speaks to its lasting quality and his appreciation for thoughtfully crafted music that evokes a sense of contemplation.

Underground Acclaim: k-os’ "4 3 2 1"

Mayor Mamdani’s deep appreciation for hip-hop extends to artists who may not have achieved widespread mainstream fame but have cultivated dedicated followings through their artistic integrity. In an interview with Billboard Canada earlier this year, he expressed his admiration for the Canadian rapper k-os. Mamdani recalled listening to k-os extensively during his high school years in New York City, noting that while "he’s not really underground but he never quite made it in New York." He specifically shouted out the tracks "4 3 2 1" and "Zamboni."

k-os, born in Toronto, is known for his lyrical dexterity, genre-blending approach to hip-hop, and socially conscious themes. His music often incorporates elements of reggae, soul, and rock, setting him apart from more conventional hip-hop artists. The track "4 3 2 1" exemplifies his energetic delivery and thought-provoking lyricism. Mamdani’s endorsement of k-os underscores his commitment to supporting artists who demonstrate originality and substance, even if they operate outside the highest echelons of commercial success. This preference for artists with a strong artistic vision aligns with his own approach to governance, emphasizing impact and integrity over superficial popularity.

The Political Catalyst: Heems’ Eat, Pray, Thug

Perhaps the most compelling testament to Mayor Mamdani’s deep connection to music and its power to influence life decisions is his assertion that his foray into politics was directly inspired by the rapper Heems. In an interview with Hot 97 last year, Mamdani revealed, "I actually got involved in local politics because I picked up a copy of the Village Voice in 2015 where I saw that Heems, who was one of my favourite rappers, was endorsing my childhood friend." This pivotal moment illustrates how cultural engagement can intersect with civic participation.

Further research revealed Mamdani’s past interactions with Heems, including frequent tweets in his early twenties expressing his enthusiasm for Heems’ work. One such tweet read: "Big boss, I ordered [2015 EP] Eat, Pray, Thug a month ago. When should I expect it at the crib? Much love." Heems, also known as Himanshu Suri, is a co-founder of the acclaimed rap duo Swet Shop Boys alongside Riz Ahmed. His 2015 EP, Eat, Pray, Thug, explored themes of identity, diaspora, and cultural belonging, resonating with a younger generation navigating complex societal landscapes. Mamdani’s direct acknowledgment of Heems as a catalyst for his political career highlights the profound impact that artists and their work can have, not only on individual lives but also on the broader trajectory of public service and civic engagement. The year 2015 marked a significant period of political awakening for many, and for Mamdani, this awakening was significantly influenced by his passion for hip-hop culture.