Donald Trump has stirred up controversy at his campaign rallies by showcasing a unique music taste and some questionable dance moves. While Vice President Kamala Harris got the green light from Beyoncé to use “Freedom” in her campaign launch, Trump has not been so lucky with many artists, having faced legal issues for using their music without permission.
Most notably, the estate of Isaac Hayes recently filed a $3 million lawsuit against Trump for copyright infringement over the unauthorized use of “Hold On I’m Coming” during rallies. This isn’t an isolated incident; multiple musicians’ estates, including Prince, Tom Petty, and Leonard Cohen, have publicly objected to Trump’s use of their songs.
Under U.S. copyright law, artists hold the rights to control how their music is used. Musicians have the option to either grant permission or pursue legal action when their work is misused.
James L. Walker, the attorney for the Hayes family, remarked that many artists might not pursue legal action due to time or financial constraints. Interestingly, while some musicians like Billy Ray Cyrus and Kanye West have supported Trump, many others have vehemently opposed the use of their music at his events.
Here’s a quick look at some artists who’ve had disputes with Trump over music rights:
Aerosmith
Frontman Steven Tyler has sent multiple cease-and-desist letters regarding the use of “Livin’ on the Edge” at Trump rallies.
R.E.M.
The band has consistently opposed the use of their hits, even threatening legal action over “Losing My Religion.”
Adele
Trump was informed that he couldn’t use “Rolling in the Deep” during his 2016 campaign.
Elton John
Elton John also stated he never authorized Trump to play his songs during rallies.
Brian May
Queen’s guitarist made it clear that the band did not approve the use of “We Are the Champions” at the 2016 RNC.
Earth, Wind & Fire
They publicly denounced the use of “September” at a Trump event.
Bruce Springsteen
The Boss criticized Trump for using “Born in the U.S.A.” without his blessing.
The Rolling Stones
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards sent legal notices regarding “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.”
Rihanna
She issued a cease-and-desist order after Trump used “Don’t Stop the Music.”
Phil Collins
Collins took legal action after his song “In the Air Tonight” was used at a rally.
Neil Young
Young initiated a lawsuit over his songs being played at a Trump rally.
Celine Dion
Dion’s team recently condemned Trump for using “My Heart Will Go On,” emphasizing that it was unauthorized.
Like it or not, Trump’s affinity for certain songs has sparked significant backlash from the music community. Whether he’s dancing or making a political statement, the chords of these artists’ legacies sound off against his campaign tunes.