The vice presidential nominee secures the blessing of the rock legend, who previously sued Trump's campaign, to use his iconic song during the Democratic National Convention.
- August 23, 2024
AceShowbiz - Vice presidential nominee Tim Walz secured the blessing of rock legend Neil Young to use his iconic song "Rockin' in the Free World" during the Democratic National Convention. Walz's speech culminated in a rousing ovation and a triumphant exit to the tune of the 1989 anthem.
Young's approval marked a sharp contrast to his previous stance on the song's political utilization. In 2015, Donald Trump controversially employed "Rockin' in the Free World" for his presidential campaign announcement. Young vehemently opposed this usage, citing its misalignment with his values and the song's intended message.
In 2020, Young filed a lawsuit against the Trump campaign for playing "Rockin' in the Free World" and another Young song, "Devil's Sidewalk", at rallies despite his objections. The lawsuit alleged copyright infringement and Young's discomfort with the song being used as a "theme song" for a campaign that he considered "divisive, un-American and hateful."
Walz's choice of song aligns with his known passion for classic rock music. His social media history reveals his appreciation for artists such as Genesis, Warren Zevon and Bob Dylan. As Minnesota's governor, he has proclaimed statewide celebrations for musicians like Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen and Prince.
The 2024 Democratic National Convention has witnessed a significant musical presence, with artists like John Legend, Patti LaBelle and Stevie Wonder performing throughout the event. The use of "Rockin' in the Free World" further underscores the role of music in shaping the political landscape, particularly during such highly charged election cycles.
