A spokesperson for former President Donald Trump insists they have obtained permission to use Foo Fighters' song 'My Hero' at a recent rally following the band's objection.
- Aug 27, 2024
AceShowbiz - Donald Trump's latest campaign rally has sparked a fresh controversy, this time involving the use of Foo Fighters' iconic song "My Hero" without the band's permission.
During a Trump rally in Glendale, AZ last Friday, "My Hero" played as the former President introduced Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who had just suspended his campaign and endorsed the MAGA leader. Foo Fighters quickly responded on social media when asked if they had authorized the song's use, simply replying "no."
A representative for the band reiterated their stance to Variety, stating, "Foo Fighters were not asked permission, and if they were they would not have granted it." The band further asserted that any royalties earned from the unauthorized use would be donated to Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign.
However, Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung claims the campaign had proper authorization. "We have a license to play the song," he said in an email to The Hill. Cheung also took to the social platform X, saying, "It's Times Like These facts matter, don't be a Pretender. @foofighters," referencing other Foo Fighters songs.
This isn't the first time Trump's campaign has faced backlash from artists over song usage. In the 2020 election, The Rolling Stones objected to the use of "You Can't Always Get What You Want" at Trump rallies.
Partnering with BMI, the Stones ensured their music was removed from the campaign's licensing agreement. "There is a provision that allows BMI to exclude musical works from the license if a songwriter or publisher objects," BMI stated at the time.
Similarly, during this election cycle, Celine Dion, Beyonce Knowles, and the Isaac Hayes estate have lodged complaints against the campaign, with a federal court recently granting the Hayes estate an emergency hearing for injunctive relief.
The ongoing disputes highlight the complex interplay between music licensing and political events. While venues often hold blanket licenses that cover general use, specific objections by artists can complicate matters. As campaigns head towards more rallies, the question of who gets to play the music remains a contentious issue, underscoring the need for clear and respectful licensing practices.
With both sides standing firm, this latest incident with the Foo Fighters serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required between artistic rights and political campaigns, a challenge that will no doubt continue to play out in the public arena.