James Taylor is determined to keep the show moving forward.

The renowned singer-songwriter was expected to perform during the inaugural night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Taylor was meant to share the stage at the United Center with country artist Mickey Guyton and Americana musician Jason Isbell.

However, while Guyton and Isbell presented their performances on Day 1, Taylor was notably missing from the lineup.

The “Fire and Rain” artist was scheduled for the 9 p.m. segment, which also included speeches from First Lady Jill Biden and her daughter Ashley Biden, who gave a touching introduction for President Joe Biden at the gathering.

What happened to James Taylor at the DNC?

DNC organizers later released a statement regarding the timeline delays during Monday’s proceedings, though Taylor’s absence was not specifically addressed.

“Due to the enthusiastic applause that disrupted speaker after speaker, we ultimately omitted parts of our program to expedite President Biden’s appearance, allowing him to connect directly with the American people,” the statement noted, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, part of the YSL News Network.

“We take pride in the vibrant energy of our convention hall and are proud that our event is highlighting the diverse coalition supporting the Harris-Walz ticket during the week, on and off stage.”

Taylor was seen present at the DNC earlier on Monday, as shared on social media. Footage showed the Grammy-winning musician practicing his 1971 classic “You’ve Got a Friend” while playing his guitar.

James Taylor expresses regret for canceled performance

“We had a fantastic rehearsal with @RickeyMinor and wonderful singers, @KenyaHathaway and Mathew Johnson preceding the event,” Taylor stated. “However, it became evident as the night progressed that there wouldn’t be enough time for our ‘You’ve Got a Friend’ with cello and vocals. Perhaps the organizers weren’t prepared for the enthusiastic response from the audience at the United Center”

Taylor’s publicist, Allison Elbl, informed YSL News via email on Tuesday that “there are no current plans to reschedule” his performance.

“Anyway, I apologize for any disappointment,” Taylor finished. “But it was a wonderful and inspiring, truly American occasion. We felt honored to be part of it”

Day 2 of the DNC is set to begin at 5:30 p.m. CT/6:30 p.m. ET, featuring speakers including former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff.

Additional reporting by: Karissa Waddick, YSL News; Hannah Kirby, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel