Neil Young Files Copyright Infringement Lawsuit Against Trump Campaign Over Song Usage

Legal Action Over Copyrighted Material

Musician Neil Young has filed a new copyright infringement lawsuit against the Trump 47 Committee, Inc., alleging the unauthorized use of his 1989 anthem, "Rockin' in the Free World," at political rallies. The complaint, filed in the Eastern District of Virginia, cites a specific instance at an October 12 rally in Youngstown, Ohio, and contends that the campaign has continued to utilize the song despite previous legal disputes and explicit objections.

History of Disputes

The legal tension between Young and the Trump campaign dates back to 2015 when the song was used to launch Donald Trump's initial bid for the Republican nomination. While campaigns often secure broad performance licenses through organizations like the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), the organization notes that such licenses do not necessarily override an artist's personal objection to having their music associated with a specific candidate or cause.

In 2020, Young filed a similar lawsuit against the campaign, which was later dropped after the committee reportedly agreed not to use his music without permission. The current filing alleges that the campaign has "willfully proceeded" to use the track despite knowing a license and artist authorization are required.

Impact and Legal Demands

Young is seeking $10 million in damages, legal fees, and a permanent injunction preventing the campaign from playing any songs from his catalog at future events. The lawsuit characterizes "Rockin' in the Free World" as an anthem that stands in direct opposition to the political messaging of the Trump campaign.

Broader Context

This legal action reflects a growing trend of musicians publicly distancing themselves from political campaigns. Numerous artists, including the Rolling Stones, Céline Dion, ABBA, and the estate of Leonard Cohen, have issued similar objections or cease-and-desist letters to the Trump campaign over the years regarding the unauthorized use of their music to energize rally audiences.

Readers can verify these ongoing legal developments through official court records in the Eastern District of Virginia or by reviewing the guidance provided by performance rights organizations regarding campaign music licensing.

Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/neil-young-trump-lawsuit-song-9.7398117