LINCOLN, Neb. Flatwater Free Press — The unmistakable boos echoed in Jayde Dorsey’s ears as she waited backstage for her turn to perform at The Astro in La Vista.
Oh my God, they’re going to boo me she thought nervously.
For the 12-year-old from North Omaha, the stage that August day was the biggest she had ever faced. She was part of a lineup supporting Tim Walz, the Democratic Party’s newly nominated pick for vice president, who was the main draw for the crowd of 4,500. However, Jayde emerged with newfound fame that day, along with the prospect of performing in Washington, D.C., in January, depending on the presidential election outcome.
I was shaking I was so nervous, Jayde recalled. This was my first time being in that kind of setting I didn’t want to mess up because of it. But when I went on stage and sang, all my nerves went away.
The past two months have been a whirlwind for the Dorsey family and a profound learning experience for Jayde. She quickly discovered that booing is a common rallying cry when political opponents are mentioned. This experience has also ignited a surge of pride and admiration within her community, from her family’s church to her former elementary school.
I absolutely love that she’s being recognized for her talents and leadership, said Susan Toohey, superintendent at Nelson Mandela Elementary, where Jayde attended school. She has emerged as an ambassador for her school, her church, and North Omaha. It’s wonderful to see her sharing her gifts more broadly.
On Oct. 13, the Sunday service at Salem Baptist Church was already lively when Jayde took the stage. She delivered a stunning rendition of “His Eye is on the Sparrow,” infusing the traditional hymn with an R&B flair. The jubilant congregation responded enthusiastically, rising to their feet, raising their hands, and engaging in her call-and-response evocation.
She definitely sings under what we call the anointing, said Llana Smith, a member of Salem Baptist. It’s a very spirit-filled voice.
When I sing on stage, it’s like the spirit moves me, and I just let it all out, Jayde shared, acknowledging the challenge of coming down after such ecstatic expression.
