Music and politics are clashing once again as renowned artists voice their demands.
According to Axios, singers and musicians are stepping up to forbid Donald Trump’s campaign from utilizing their music during events.
Artists like Jack White, Celine Dion, and the estate of Isaac Hayes have outright objected to the use of their songs. Jack White has notably gone so far as to threaten legal measures after his track “Seven Nation Army” appeared in a campaign-related social media post.
The Trump campaign, amidst these complaints, retains that some of their music use is covered under licensing agreements, specifically mentioning their legal right to use tracks by ABBA. Nevertheless, disputes continue regarding these claims.
Celine Dion’s management team has categorically stated that her music’s appearance at a rally was not sanctioned, adding to the legal challenges they might pursue. Isaac Hayes’ estate has also taken a more aggressive approach by filing a lawsuit alleging copyright infringement that involves as many as 134 violations.
Despite holding licenses, artists argue that their work's use suggests a false endorsement, which is especially problematic in the politically charged atmosphere leading up to an election.
Jack White expressed his disdain unequivocally, voicing his intention to pursue legal action and criticizing the motivations behind such music usage. Below is his statement:
"Don't even think about my music you fascists. Lawsuit coming from my lawyers about this (to add to your 5 thousand others.)."
Moreover, while some artists have voiced overt disapproval of Trump’s campaign, others like Lee Greenwood and Kid Rock have declared their support, showcasing the varied political leanings within the music industry. Musicians opposing Trump have also shown support for his political contender, Kamala Harris, in various forms such as redirecting royalties and issuing cease-and-desist notices. In an official statement, Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung criticized the artists’ actions and touched upon the financial aspects of music licensing.
Steven Cheung’s perspective shows the campaign’s dismissal of these complaints as primarily financially motivated. Indeed, he believes that regardless of these legal disputes, Donald Trump’s political momentum will continue unabated.
It's times like these you learn that it's all about money, money, money and not about freedom with these artists, said Cheung. But the nation will go on and President Trump will take back the White House to Save America.
The ongoing feud between artists and the Trump campaign brings up important questions about copyright laws and the relationship between music, endorsements, and political campaigns.
With only a few months left until the 2024 presidential election, these arguments are likely to intensify. Artists have long been protective of their work’s use, stating that it extends beyond mere licensing to issues of personal values and endorsements.
Finally, as the legal and ethical debates unfold, artists and their legal teams continue to guard their creative outputs and political affiliations, potentially influencing public and voter sentiment as the presidential race heats up.
