Musician Jack White Challenges Trump Over Unauthorized Political Music Use

Lawsuit document with gavel, pen, and open book.

The White Stripes join a growing list of artists taking a stand against the unauthorized use of their music by political figures.

At a Glance

  • The White Stripes filed a copyright claim against Donald Trump.
  • The song “Seven Nation Army” was removed from Trump’s campaign video.
  • Trump’s team has not responded to the legal claim.
  • Similar claims were made by Beyoncé, Celine Dion, and the Foo Fighters.
  • Legal experts are watching to see Trump’s next move.

The Legal Battle

The White Stripes have launched a legal battle against Donald Trump over the unauthorized use of their hit song, “Seven Nation Army,” in a campaign video. The video, which featured Trump boarding his private jet, has since been removed. Jack White expressed his frustration over social media, notably on Instagram. He strongly denounced Trump and his team, referring to them as “fascists,” while also criticizing Trump for alleged remarks against veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. Actions like these have not gone unnoticed in the music industry and raise essential questions about intellectual property rights.

The White Stripes claim centers on the argument that the song’s use in the video could wrongly project the idea that the band supports Trump’s campaign, thus potentially aiding him financially and politically without the band’s consent. According to reports, neither Trump nor his team has replied to these allegations. This action places The White Stripes among other renowned musicians, including Beyoncé and Celine Dion, who have resisted unauthorized use of their music by Trump in the past.

Repercussions for Unauthorized Use

The escalating legal actions highlight the ongoing issue of unauthorized music use in political campaigns. Artists argue that the misuse of their work may suggest political endorsements they never intended, creating a moral and legal conundrum. Legal claims have already been filed by several high-profile musicians, including Foo Fighters and ABBA, who have taken a stand against similar unauthorized use. Fans and legal experts are closely monitoring developments in this case for Trump’s forthcoming moves.

Legal experts advocate for musicians to ensure their works are appropriately licensed and to act promptly to protect their rights. This scenario reflects the continuous challenge musicians face, especially when their creations become entangled in political spheres without consent. In this case, Jack White and The White Stripes aim to uphold their rights as creators, making it clear they do not support Trump’s use of their profoundly influential anthem.

Trump’s Response Awaited

This incident marks the second time Trump used “Seven Nation Army” without the band’s approval, echoing a similar dispute during the 2016 campaign. White has long been an outspoken critic of Trump’s policies and actions, which he perceives as contrary to the values he and many others cherish. Universal Music has also joined in by issuing a legal notice to Trump’s campaign over the unauthorized use of ABBA’s iconic tracks, and musicians like the Foo Fighters have chosen to donate royalties to political causes they support, thus addressing the misuse.

The case of The White Stripes stands as a reminder of the unresolved tension between artists and political entities regarding music rights. As this legal maneuver progresses, the music industry closely watches for its implications and potential resolution. The demand remains clear: artists must protect their work, ensuring that their creations align with their intentions and not be distorted by unauthorized political use.

Sources:

  1. White Stripes File Copyright Claim Against Trump Over Music Use in Campaign
  2. Jack White Threatens Donald Trump With Lawsuit Over Music Usage
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