Beyoncé has made it clear that she does not approve of the Trump campaign’s use of her 2016 track “Freedom.” The unauthorized use of her song in a since-deleted video shared on social media has prompted Beyoncé to warn Trump’s campaign team that she could issue a cease-and-desist order. Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung shared a clip depicting Trump campaigning while “Freedom,” the Lemonade highlight featuring Kendrick Lamar, plays.
Beyoncé’s Response to Trump Campaign’s Use of “Freedom”
The tweet containing the video has since been removed from Cheung’s account, but he has yet to address the removal of the video. In contrast, “Freedom” has become the de facto campaign song for Kamala Harris during the 2024 election. On Monday, August 19, her campaign released a new ad soundtracked by the song alongside narration from actor Jeffrey Wright. Harris initially used the song with Beyoncé’s permission when she launched her presidential campaign after Joe Biden’s withdrawal. The official campaign launch video also featured the track.
Legal Troubles for Trump Campaign
The Trump campaign has faced legal issues with artists throughout his three presidential campaigns. Recently, the family of the late Isaac Hayes filed a lawsuit against Trump for repeatedly using the track “Hold On, I’m Coming” at rallies without permission from Hayes’ estate. Celine Dion’s management also denounced the unauthorized use of her song “My Heart Will Go On” at one of Trump’s rallies. Other artists, including Rihanna, Pharrell Williams, Bruce Springsteen, and the estate of Prince, have also taken issue with the use of their tracks.
FAQs
Q: Why does Beyoncé disapprove of the Trump campaign’s use of her song?
A: Beyoncé has not given permission for her song “Freedom” to be used by the Trump campaign, leading her to warn of potential legal action.
Q: How has Kamala Harris used “Freedom” in her campaign?
A: Kamala Harris has adopted “Freedom” as her campaign song, using it in ads and videos with Beyoncé’s permission.
Q: What legal issues has the Trump campaign faced with other artists?
A: The Trump campaign has faced lawsuits and backlash from artists like Isaac Hayes, Celine Dion, Rihanna, Pharrell Williams, Bruce Springsteen, and the estate of Prince for unauthorized use of their songs.
Credit: www.complex.com
