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The Intellectual Property StrategistFeaturesCopyrightsElection and Political LawEntertainment and Sports LawLitigation

Hold On, I'm Suing: Artists' Copyright Claims over the Trump Campaign's Use of Their Music and What Some Courts Have Ruled In Similar Instances

By Stan Soocher
October 01, 2024

During his political career, former President Donald Trump has become notorious for provoking protests from a wide range artists whose music they say he uses for political purposes, at rallies and in videos, without the artists' permission. In just the last few months, protests have been launched by Beyoncé, Celine Dion, the Foo Fighters, Jack White and the estate of Isaac Hayes. On Aug. 29, for example, White posted on Instagram "Law suit coming from my lawyers about this" over the Trump campaign's use of a portion of The White Stripes's 2003 hit "Seven Nation Army" in a campaign video.

In general, when artists do take action over political-campaign settings, it's usually in the form of a cease-and-desist letter sent to a candidate's representatives. In some instances, artists file lawsuits, but to date there's been just a smattering of notable court decisions. This article provides a refresher on these rulings as well as a look at the recent lawsuit by the estate of Isaac Hayes over the Trump campaign's use of the classic soul song "Hold On, I'm Coming."

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