Beyoncé has taken swift legal action against Donald Trump and his presidential campaign after they used her song “Freedom” without authorization. The unauthorized use has resulted in a cease-and-desist order issued by her record label, Parkwood, and Columbia Records. The legal notice underscores the ongoing tension between Trump and various artists who have objected to his campaign’s unapproved use of their music.
Trump’s Use of “Freedom” Sparks Legal Response
On August 20, Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for the Trump campaign, posted a video on social media featuring Trump disembarking from an aircraft, with Beyoncé’s “Freedom” playing in the background. The choice of music quickly raised eyebrows, as the song is closely tied to Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. Harris has been using “Freedom” as her official anthem since the start of her campaign earlier this summer, with Beyoncé’s full blessing. The song’s powerful lyrics and themes of empowerment have made it a fitting soundtrack for Harris, especially as she positions herself as a unifying figure in a politically divided America.
Beyoncé’s team, however, was not pleased with the song’s association with Trump, leading to the issuance of a cease-and-desist order. Rolling Stone first reported the legal action, confirming that the order was intended to stop Trump from using the song in any form. Despite the legal notice, the video remained on Cheung’s Twitter/X account for several hours before it was eventually removed, following public outcry and media scrutiny.
Beyoncé’s Song “Freedom” and Political Campaigns
“Freedom,” one of the standout tracks from Beyoncé’s critically acclaimed 2016 album Lemonade, has become more than just a song; it’s a rallying cry for social justice and empowerment. Its selection as Kamala Harris’ campaign anthem was a strategic choice, reflecting the campaign’s commitment to fighting for the rights and freedoms of all Americans. The song has played at Harris’ campaign events, including her first public appearance after receiving President Joe Biden’s endorsement. In contrast, Trump’s unauthorized use of the song adds to a long history of the former president using popular music at rallies and in campaign videos without securing proper permission.
This is not the first time Trump has faced legal challenges from artists over the use of their music. Over the years, musicians such as Adele, Rihanna, Prince, and Pharrell have either issued cease-and-desist orders or publicly criticized Trump for using their work without consent. The most recent case involving the estate of Isaac Hayes also resulted in legal action after Trump used Hayes’ “Hold On, I’m Coming” at multiple rallies without authorization.