Showing posts with label banned. Show all posts
Showing posts with label banned. Show all posts
Friday, January 24, 2025
Sunday, January 19, 2025
Banning TikTok Doesn't Protect Our Security - It Damages Our Free Speech
Our government passed a law that bans TikTok in this country (unless it sells to a U.S. person or company). And last week, the Supreme Court upheld that law - agreeing with Congress that it was a security threat (and that threat was great enough to restrict free speech).
I disagree. I fail to see the security threat. While it is true that the free speech right of all Americans is not absolute - you cannot use speech to put lives in danger (like yelling fire in a theater or telling someone to kill someone or exposing a military secret) - the rules against it are rightfully very limited.
Just how does allowing TikTok to exist compromise our national security?
Its opponents point out that it gathers the personal information of citizens. I'm sure it does. But so do many other social media sites (and they eagerly sell that information to companies and other organizations). That doesn't compromise our national security, but it can be irritating to individuals who don't want their information shared. To them, I say don't share your information of any internet site.
Its opponents say many people get their "news" from TikTok, and they could be getting news slanted toward China's interests. That may be true also. But many people get their news from other sites that are suspect, both on the right and left (and those sites contain a lot of slanted news and outright misinformation). It would be nice if every site only printed the truth, but that is not the world we live in.
The truth is that free speech must include speech we don't like - even speech that may offend us. We can use our own speech to oppose what we see as offensive or untrue, but it's a mistake to try and ban it. When a government bans one type of speech, it makes it easier to ban another - and banning speech is the tool dictators use to control the population.
The two most important rights we have as Americans are the right to vote and the right to free speech - and those rights depend on each other. We cannot restrict either and maintain our democracy.
The government ban of TikTok was a step in the wrong direction for our democracy. I hope it can soon be overturned.
Friday, December 27, 2024
Chemical/Biological Weapons Were Banned - Nuclear Weapons Should Be Next
The following is part of a post by Beatrice Fihn in The New York Times:
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the growing risk of nuclear war today. Russia is making regular nuclear threats. America is undertaking a large-scale nuclear modernization program. China is increasing its nuclear arsenal. Tensions are escalating between nuclear-armed states.
But nuclear weapons are not an inevitable fact of human life. They are not impossible to get rid of, and pushing for that can be done by ordinary people like you and me.
Precedent exists for solving the problem of weapons of mass destruction. At one point, the United States and the Soviet Union, then Russia, together had over 70,000 tons of chemical weapons. But on July 7, 2023, the United States announced it had destroyed the last of its chemical weapon stockpiles, under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention. Russia declared it had done so a few years earlier.
When nations violate such treaties — such as when Syria, a party to the treaty, used chemical weapons in 2018 — they see little benefit but can quickly bring on international condemnation. Syria’s strategic position didn’t suddenly improve because it employed a weapon of mass destruction. The world perceives chemical and biological weapons as very dangerous but not as a source of power.
Nuclear weapons can lose their power, too. Contrary to popular belief, nuclear weapons are remarkably inefficient tools of war. They are clumsy, expensive, and lack practical military utility. Their use would result in catastrophic destruction, potentially wiping out hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians and spreading radioactive contamination across borders and generations. It is hard to envisage a scenario in which a state would be better off choosing to use a nuclear weapon over a conventional weapon, given the significant harm it would cause both to that nation and to its allies. Even nuclear-armed nations openly acknowledge that these weapons should never be used.
As opposed to conventional weapons, nuclear weapons’ main perceived benefit lies in their ability to scare and deter others. Their power lies not in their practical utility but in how they are viewed by nations and their adversaries. This concept, known as nuclear deterrence, works only as long as your adversaries allow it to work; it is a profoundly vulnerable security strategy.
That vulnerability is our greatest opportunity for change. Since no other weapon is so dependent on public perception, regular people have a unique power over the future of these weapons. Ukrainians’ refusal to be deterred by Russia’s threats of using a nuclear weapon is one example of how regular people can shift perceptions of nuclear threats and reduce the impact of a nation’s nuclear arsenal. When the threats are ignored, they lose their potency.
The anti-nuclear-weapon movement has achieved many victories in restraining nuclear proliferation and preventing nuclear war this way. Student groups, trade unions, professional organizations, scientists, artists and local governments have all played crucial roles in challenging the nuclear status quo. Thanks in part to political pressure and shifts in perception generated by such grass-roots movements, most countries in the world have signed on to a world without nuclear weapons through nuclear-weapon-free zones and the United Nations’ Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The United States and Russia have reduced their nuclear stockpiles by over 80 percent since 1985. Nuclear testing, with the exception of North Korea, has ceased. Since 1945, no country has used nuclear weapons in warfare. The number of nuclear-armed states remains small — just nine out of 193 United Nations member states. Not having nuclear weapons is the norm, not the exception. . . .
So how can individuals contribute? First, recognize your power. A key tool is to change the way we talk about nuclear weapons. Instead of thinking of them as magical tools, we should talk about them as being irrational and useless for any real life military situation. Instead of discussing nuclear weapons in terms of abstract theoretical concepts like strategic stability and mutually assured destruction, we should center conversations on the facts and scientific evidence of what happens when these weapons are used or tested. We can all start questioning common assumptions that these weapons are designed to keep us safe and expose the irrationality of a national security strategy based on threatening to commit collective global suicide.
If you’re a student, organize campus discussions. If you’re a professional, engage through your networks. If you are an artist, use your skills to address these issues.
Get in touch with your elected representatives but don’t forget to also engage with city councils, state representatives and community groups. Cities and local authorities are becoming more involved in statecraft and diplomacy. Getting your city or state on board with the growing number of local authorities that are taking action on this can help build a new generation of political leaders taking on this issue.
Finally, remember that it’s not just governments that need to change. Through our pension funds, universities and financial institutions, we can try to influence corporate behavior by withdrawing investments from companies involved with nuclear weapon manufacturing. By pressuring companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and other military contractors that develop nuclear weapon technologies, we can make the production of weapons of mass destruction costly to corporate reputations. Divestment campaigns have proved effective at raising awareness in other spheres, such as tobacco and fossil fuels, and can be equally helpful in delegitimizing nuclear weapon production. . . .
We have the power to turn nuclear weapons into relics of a misguided past.
Wednesday, December 04, 2024
China Bans Shipping Critical Minerals To The United States
China is going to react to the tariffs and proposed tariffs levied against them. Last time they stopped purchasing agricultural products from the U.S., and that is likely to happen again. And they aren't waiting for Trump to take office. They have banned the export of key minerals to this country.
China has banned exports to the United States of items related to the minerals gallium, germanium and antimony that have potential military applications, it said on Tuesday.
A commerce ministry directive on dual-use items with both military and civilian applications cited national security concerns. The order, which takes immediate effect, also requires stricter review of end-usage for graphite items shipped to the U.S..
"In principle, the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States shall not be permitted," the commerce ministry said. . . .
Gallium and germanium are used in semiconductors, while germanium is also used in infrared technology, fibre optic cables and solar cells.
Similarly, China's overall October shipments of antimony products plunged by 97% from September after Beijing's move to limit its exports took effect.
China accounted last year for 48% of globally mined antimony, which is used in ammunition, infrared missiles, nuclear weapons and night-vision goggles, as well as in batteries and photovoltaic equipment.
This year, China has accounted for 59.2% of refined germanium output and 98.8% of refined gallium production, according to consultancy Project Blue.
"The move is a considerable escalation of tensions in supply chains where access to raw material units is already tight in the West," said Project Blue co-founder Jack Bedder.
Texas (And Georgia) Won't Investigate Deaths Due To Their Abortion Ban
The following is part of an article by Susan Rinkunas at MSNBC.com:
Since the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision two and a half years ago, state abortion bans have restricted pregnant women’s access to emergency medical care. And as the predictable harms — up to and including death — come to light, some states are acting as if they want to hide them from the public.
Last week, ProPublica reported on Porsha Ngumezi, the third known Texas woman to have died under that state’s abortion ban. In June 2023, Ngumezi lost so much blood from miscarrying at 11 weeks that she needed two transfusions. The hospital delayed providing a procedure called dilation and curettage to clear the uterus, with doctors instead giving her a drug to stop the bleeding. She died of hemorrhaging three hours later. More than a dozen doctors who reviewed a summary of her case told ProPublica that Ngumezi’s death could have been averted with a D&C.
The very next day, The Washington Post reported that Texas’ Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) wouldn’t examine any pregnancy-related deaths from 2022 and 2023, citing a backlog of cases on top of the two-year delay that is typical of such committees. That means Texas won’t investigate any deaths from the past two years that are potentially linked to abortion bans, like Ngumezi’s. . . .
Maternal mortality committees review women’s deaths not to publicize individual cases but to make recommendations to prevent future harm. This refusal to review pregnancy-related deaths from the first post-Dobbs years means we may never have a full picture of the harm caused by an abortion ban in the second-most-populous state — one that has a long-standing crisis of women dying from pregnancy. An analysis published in September by the Gender Equity Policy Institute found that, from 2019 to 2022, the rate of maternal deaths in Texas increased by 56%, compared with 11% nationwide. But rather than investigate, the state is essentially admitting that the bodies are piling up faster than the state can address them. Its solution is not to dedicate more time and effort — like, perhaps, increasing the size of the 23-member committee — but to simply brush these women’s lives under the rug and skip ahead to 2024.
Texas isn’t the only state engaging in this sordid interference. ProPublica has found at least five women who’ve died under abortion bans: three in Texas and two in Georgia. After the outlet reported that Georgia’s MMRC had determined the two deaths were preventable, state officials responded by firing all of its 32 members. The commissioner of Georgia’s Public Health Department wrote in a letter to members that because the department wasn’t able to figure out who shared confidential information with ProPublica, it was dismissing the whole committee and would seek applications for replacements. This ruthless move will undoubtedly delay the work of the committee, but it seems leaks to the media are more important than urgent investigations of these women’s deaths. . . .
Unfortunately, things could get worse before they get better. Lawmakers in Texas and other states are threatening to copy a Louisiana controlled substances law that makes it harder to dispense medications used to treat postpartum hemorrhaging because the drugs are also used for abortions. The law targets the medication the hospital gave to Ngumezi instead of a D&C, and experts warn it could kill even more women in childbirth.
Saturday, November 16, 2024
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
The Musicians Who Won't Let Trump Use Their Music
Adele stated that Trump did not have permission to use her songs "Rolling in the Deep" or "Skyfall" at Trump political rallies in 2016, and requested that her music not be used in any political campaigning.[4][5] Adele later endorsed Trump's 2016 opponent, Hillary Clinton, instead.[6]
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith demanded that Trump stop playing "Dream On" at Trump's political rallies in 2015.[7] In 2018, it happened again, with Tyler demanding Trump stop using another song, "Living on the Edge", at his political rallies. A cease and desist letter was sent both times.[8]
George Harrison's estate denounced the use of the Harrison-written Beatles song "Here Comes the Sun" after the Trump campaign used the song to introduce Ivanka Trump at the 2016 Republican National Convention.[9] The estate noted that Trump did not have permission to use this song, but that they would consider allowing him to use the Harrison song "Beware of Darkness".[9]
Bruce Springsteen opposed Trump using his song "Born in the U.S.A." at Trump's political rallies in 2016.[10] Rather than take legal action, he openly announced his support for Trump's opponent, Hillary Clinton, and campaigned in support of her. As a result, the song would instead get booed every time Trump played it at rallies from that point on.[11]
Celine Dion's management team and Sony Music Canada issued a statement following the unauthorized use of "My Heart Will Go On" at a Trump political rally in Montana in August 2024, in which it's stated that "[…] Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use. …And really, THAT song?".[12]
John Fogerty, the frontman for the band Creedence Clearwater Revival, has opposed Trump's use of the band's song "Fortunate Son". In October 2020, Fogerty announced he was sending a cease-and-desist letter to Trump, saying that Trump "is using my words and my voice to portray a message that I do not endorse".[13] Fogerty noted that it was quite the opposite—the song's lyrics were meant as a critique of how wealthy people are unfairly able to avoid the draft or pay their share of taxes.[14] Later on, he openly endorsed Trump's 2020 challenger, Joe Biden, by launching his own TikTok account following Trump's defiance of the cease and desist order over usage of his song, "Fortunate Son".[15]
Earth, Wind & Fire criticized Trump's use of their song "September" without permission at 2016 Republican National Convention.[16]
Eddy Grant issued a copyright complaint over Trump's use of his song "Electric Avenue" in a political video he tweeted. The video was taken down, and a lawsuit and cease and desist followed.[17]
Elton John opposed the use of his songs "Rocket Man" and "Tiny Dancer" at Trump political rallies in 2016.[18] John noted that while their political views were very different, it was not personal.[19] He believed that, as a British musician, his music had no place in US politics at all, and that someone like Ted Nugent was more appropriate.[20]
Everlast, the House of Pain rapper, issued a cease and desist order over Trump's use of his song "Jump Around" during his campaign rallies, and he launched a profanity-laced tirade against him.[21]
Free vocalist Paul Rodgers sued Trump after his 2016 campaign played their song "All Right Now".[22]
Axl Rose opposed the use of Guns N' Roses cover of the Paul McCartney and Wings song "Live and Let Die" in a meatpacking plant where Trump refused to take the COVID-19 pandemic precaution of wearing a mask. In response, Rose created shirts with the phrase "Live N’ Let Die With COVID 45", with all proceeds going to the MusiCares charity.[23][24]
On May 28, 2022, the family of Isaac Hayes harshly criticized Trump for using the Sam & Dave song "Hold On, I'm Comin'" at a National Rifle Association convention: "The estate and family of Isaac Hayes DID NOT approve and would NEVER approve the use of “Hold on I’m coming” by Sam and Dave by Donald Trump at this weekends @NRA convention. Our condolences go out to the victims and families of #Uvalde and mass shooting victims everywhere."[25] Song co-writer David Porter also objected to the use of the song, stating on Twitter, "Someone shared with me Donald Trump used the song 'Hold On I’m Coming' for a speaking appearance of his. Hell to the No! I did Not and would NOT approve of them using the song for any of his purposes! I also know Isaac's estate wouldn't approve as well! #Memphis #Music #Grammy"[26] On August 10, 2024, the family of Isaac Hayes threatened Trump with legal action if he continued to use "Hold On, I'm Comin', which Trump used at a Bozeman, Montana, rally on that date. The family, alleging copyright infringement, demanded $3m in licensing fees for Trump's use of the song between 2022 and 2024 and stated that if there was no resolution, it would sue Trump for damages of $150,000 per use of the song.[27]
English songwriter and former The Smiths member Johnny Marr, opposed the use of the song "Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want" at a 2024 rally without permission. Upon finding out about it, he responded "I never in a million years would’ve thought this could come to pass. Consider this shit shut right down right now."[28][29]
On August 28, 2020, the Cohen estate issued a statement criticizing Trump's unauthorized use of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" at the Republican National Convention. They said they specifically rejected permission for its use, and would have only realistically considered approving Cohen's song "You Want It Darker".[30]
On July 18, 2020, Trump retweeted a fan-made re-election campaign video ad featuring a cover of Linkin Park's "In the End". Twitter received a Digital Millennium Copyright Act notice from the band's management company, Machine Shop Entertainment, and the video was pulled. Linkin Park followed up with a response, "Linkin Park did not and does not endorse Trump, nor authorize his organization to use any of our music. A cease and desist has been issued." The late lead singer, Chester Bennington, had before called Trump a "greater threat to the USA than terrorism."[31][32]
Family members of Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti protested the use of his recording of "Nessun Dorma" at Trump's rallies (which ends with the chant "I will win".) Pavarotti's widow and three daughters objected, stating that Trump's views on immigration were incompatible with Pavarotti's efforts as United Nations Messenger of Peace, which had raised large amounts of money for the support of immigrants and refugees.[33]
Neil Young has indicated multiple times that he does not approve of the use of his song "Rockin' in the Free World" at Trump rallies, which has been done since 2015.[34] Young conceded he had no legal grounds to oppose the song's use, but in 2020 he wrote a scathing open letter directed at Trump that stated: "Every time 'Rockin’ in the Free World' or one of my songs is played at your rallies, I hope you hear my voice. Remember it is the voice of a tax-paying U.S. citizen who does not support you. Me."[35]He later objected to the use of the song in Trump's speech at Mount Rushmore on the Fourth of July of the same year.[36]
Nickelback indicated that they did not support Trump's use of their song "Photograph". When Trump tweeted a doctored version of the song and music video on Twitter, the band's record label, Warner Music Group, issued a copyright claim, leading to the video being taken down.[37] Sales of the real version of the song jumped over 500% in the days afterwards despite the takedown.[38]
Nico Vega criticized a "fight for Trump" video, shared by President Donald Trump on twitter 20 December 2020, for using their song "Beast". "To be clear, Nico Vega does not support the use of our song "Beast" in Trump's recent video, We have love and empathy for all people of all backgrounds, races and beliefs, and we feel sick how all Americans' fears and vulnerabilities have been exploited over the last four years, We will not participate in a form of propaganda that pits Americans against one another."[39] On December 23, 2020 Billboard magazine reported that Nico Vega dropped a "Cease and Desist" Playlist on Spotify which listed all the songs and bands who had opposed Trump's use of their songs at rallies or in campaign videos.[40]
Ozzy Osbourne criticized Trump's use of his iconic song "Crazy Train" in a video highlighting the technical difficulties in the first Democratic presidential primary debate, stating with his wife Sharon Osbourne in a joint statement: "[W]e are sending notice to the Trump campaign (or any other campaigns) that they are forbidden from using any of Ozzy Osbourne’s music in political ads or in any political campaigns."[41]
Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco demanded that Trump stop using his song "High Hopes" at Trump's political rallies in 2020, releasing a brief statement of "Donald Trump represents nothing we stand for...Dear Trump Campaign, F--- you. You're not invited. Stop playing my song. No thanks, Brendon Urie, Panic! At The Disco & company".[42]
Pharrell Williams opposed Trump's playing of his song "Happy" at rallies, including one held just hours after the 2018 Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. Williams' legal team threatened legal action, claiming its use without permission copyright and trademark infringement.[43]
Phil Collins's legal team sent a cease and desist order to Trump's campaign after the unauthorized use of "In the Air Tonight" at a rally at Des Moines, Iowa on October 14, 2020.[44]
The estate of Prince condemned Trump's use of his song "Purple Rain" at a rally in 2019. In response, the estate shared a letter from the Trump campaign from 2018 that had promised not to use Prince's music, because they had not received the rights from the estate, showing they had official documentation of acknowledgement that they did not have the rights to play the music.[45]
Brian May of Queen opposed Trump's use of "We Are the Champions" as his "theme song" while walking out to the Republican National Convention in 2016. He denounced its use as unauthorized, where permission was neither sought nor given, and that they were looking at taking further steps should the band's music be used any further by his campaign.[46]
R.E.M. has opposed the use of their music by Trump on a number of occasions. In 2015, vocalist Michael Stipe voiced opposition of "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)" at Trump rallies, stating "Do not use our music or my voice for your moronic charade of a campaign."[47] In 2019, bassist Mike Mills spoke out about Trump's promotion of a video containing the unauthorized use of the song "Everybody Hurts", urging Twitter to take it down, which it eventually did.[48] Later in 2020, Mills threatened legal action over using "Everybody Hurts" and "Losing My Religion" at Trump's rallies.[49]
Rihanna threatened legal action against Trump for the unauthorized use of her song "Don't Stop the Music" at Trump rallies in 2018. Her legal team released a comment that Rihanna has no association or affiliation with Trump, and she did not support his campaign.[50]
Both Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones opposed Trump's use of the song "You Can't Always Get What You Want". The band sent him cease and desist letters about its use in 2016, and upon Trump using it again in June 2020, the band teamed up with Broadcast Music, Inc. to threaten legal action if the song is used again.[51][52]
The estate of Sinéad O'Connor and Chrysalis Records oppose Trump's use of her cover of Prince's "Nothing Compares 2 U", at a 2024 rally. The estate explained that "it is no exaggeration to say that Sinéad would have been disgusted, hurt, and insulted to have her work misrepresented in this way."[53]
The family of Tom Petty denounced Trump's use of the song "I Won't Back Down" at political rallies in 2020.[54] The family sent the campaign a cease and desist letter, stating that the song was written for the "underdog" and "common man", and that Trump did not represent either.[55]
In 2014 Twisted Sister allowed Trump to use "We're Not Gonna Take It" for his 2016 campaign because "It" is a song about rebellion, and there's nothing more rebellious than what Donald Trump is doing right now". However, in 2015, the band frontman Dee Snider removed the song from Trump's campaign stating that "it's very upsetting to me, because I strongly don't agree with his extremist positions".[56][57]
In June 2020 Village People frontman Victor Willis asked that Trump no longer use any of his music at his rallies, particularly the songs "Macho Man" and "Y.M.C.A."[58] After a cease-and-Adele
Adele stated that Trump did not have permission to use her songs "Rolling in the Deep" or "Skyfall" at Trump political rallies in 2016, and requested that her music not be used in any political campaigning.[4][5] Adele later endorsed Trump's 2016 opponent, Hillary Clinton, instead.[6]
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith demanded that Trump stop playing "Dream On" at Trump's political rallies in 2015.[7] In 2018, it happened again, with Tyler demanding Trump stop using another song, "Living on the Edge", at his political rallies. A cease and desist letter was sent both times.[8]
George Harrison's estate denounced the use of the Harrison-written Beatles song "Here Comes the Sun" after the Trump campaign used the song to introduce Ivanka Trump at the 2016 Republican National Convention.[9] The estate noted that Trump did not have permission to use this song, but that they would consider allowing him to use the Harrison song "Beware of Darkness".[9]
Bruce Springsteen opposed Trump using his song "Born in the U.S.A." at Trump's political rallies in 2016.[10] Rather than take legal action, he openly announced his support for Trump's opponent, Hillary Clinton, and campaigned in support of her. As a result, the song would instead get booed every time Trump played it at rallies from that point on.[11]
Celine Dion's management team and Sony Music Canada issued a statement following the unauthorized use of "My Heart Will Go On" at a Trump political rally in Montana in August 2024, in which it's stated that "[…] Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use. …And really, THAT song?".[12]
John Fogerty, the frontman for the band Creedence Clearwater Revival, has opposed Trump's use of the band's song "Fortunate Son". In October 2020, Fogerty announced he was sending a cease-and-desist letter to Trump, saying that Trump "is using my words and my voice to portray a message that I do not endorse".[13] Fogerty noted that it was quite the opposite—the song's lyrics were meant as a critique of how wealthy people are unfairly able to avoid the draft or pay their share of taxes.[14] Later on, he openly endorsed Trump's 2020 challenger, Joe Biden, by launching his own TikTok account following Trump's defiance of the cease and desist order over usage of his song, "Fortunate Son".[15]
Earth, Wind & Fire criticized Trump's use of their song "September" without permission at 2016 Republican National Convention.[16]
Eddy Grant issued a copyright complaint over Trump's use of his song "Electric Avenue" in a political video he tweeted. The video was taken down, and a lawsuit and cease and desist followed.[17]
Elton John opposed the use of his songs "Rocket Man" and "Tiny Dancer" at Trump political rallies in 2016.[18] John noted that while their political views were very different, it was not personal.[19] He believed that, as a British musician, his music had no place in US politics at all, and that someone like Ted Nugent was more appropriate.[20]
Everlast, the House of Pain rapper, issued a cease and desist order over Trump's use of his song "Jump Around" during his campaign rallies, and he launched a profanity-laced tirade against him.[21]
Free vocalist Paul Rodgers sued Trump after his 2016 campaign played their song "All Right Now".[22]
Axl Rose opposed the use of Guns N' Roses cover of the Paul McCartney and Wings song "Live and Let Die" in a meatpacking plant where Trump refused to take the COVID-19 pandemic precaution of wearing a mask. In response, Rose created shirts with the phrase "Live N’ Let Die With COVID 45", with all proceeds going to the MusiCares charity.[23][24]
On May 28, 2022, the family of Isaac Hayes harshly criticized Trump for using the Sam & Dave song "Hold On, I'm Comin'" at a National Rifle Association convention: "The estate and family of Isaac Hayes DID NOT approve and would NEVER approve the use of “Hold on I’m coming” by Sam and Dave by Donald Trump at this weekends @NRA convention. Our condolences go out to the victims and families of #Uvalde and mass shooting victims everywhere."[25] Song co-writer David Porter also objected to the use of the song, stating on Twitter, "Someone shared with me Donald Trump used the song 'Hold On I’m Coming' for a speaking appearance of his. Hell to the No! I did Not and would NOT approve of them using the song for any of his purposes! I also know Isaac's estate wouldn't approve as well! #Memphis #Music #Grammy"[26] On August 10, 2024, the family of Isaac Hayes threatened Trump with legal action if he continued to use "Hold On, I'm Comin', which Trump used at a Bozeman, Montana, rally on that date. The family, alleging copyright infringement, demanded $3m in licensing fees for Trump's use of the song between 2022 and 2024 and stated that if there was no resolution, it would sue Trump for damages of $150,000 per use of the song.[27]
English songwriter and former The Smiths member Johnny Marr, opposed the use of the song "Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want" at a 2024 rally without permission. Upon finding out about it, he responded "I never in a million years would’ve thought this could come to pass. Consider this shit shut right down right now."[28][29]
On August 28, 2020, the Cohen estate issued a statement criticizing Trump's unauthorized use of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" at the Republican National Convention. They said they specifically rejected permission for its use, and would have only realistically considered approving Cohen's song "You Want It Darker".[30]
On July 18, 2020, Trump retweeted a fan-made re-election campaign video ad featuring a cover of Linkin Park's "In the End". Twitter received a Digital Millennium Copyright Act notice from the band's management company, Machine Shop Entertainment, and the video was pulled. Linkin Park followed up with a response, "Linkin Park did not and does not endorse Trump, nor authorize his organization to use any of our music. A cease and desist has been issued." The late lead singer, Chester Bennington, had before called Trump a "greater threat to the USA than terrorism."[31][32]
Family members of Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti protested the use of his recording of "Nessun Dorma" at Trump's rallies (which ends with the chant "I will win".) Pavarotti's widow and three daughters objected, stating that Trump's views on immigration were incompatible with Pavarotti's efforts as United Nations Messenger of Peace, which had raised large amounts of money for the support of immigrants and refugees.[33]
Neil Young has indicated multiple times that he does not approve of the use of his song "Rockin' in the Free World" at Trump rallies, which has been done since 2015.[34] Young conceded he had no legal grounds to oppose the song's use, but in 2020 he wrote a scathing open letter directed at Trump that stated: "Every time 'Rockin’ in the Free World' or one of my songs is played at your rallies, I hope you hear my voice. Remember it is the voice of a tax-paying U.S. citizen who does not support you. Me."[35]He later objected to the use of the song in Trump's speech at Mount Rushmore on the Fourth of July of the same year.[36]
Nickelback indicated that they did not support Trump's use of their song "Photograph". When Trump tweeted a doctored version of the song and music video on Twitter, the band's record label, Warner Music Group, issued a copyright claim, leading to the video being taken down.[37] Sales of the real version of the song jumped over 500% in the days afterwards despite the takedown.[38]
Nico Vega criticized a "fight for Trump" video, shared by President Donald Trump on twitter 20 December 2020, for using their song "Beast". "To be clear, Nico Vega does not support the use of our song "Beast" in Trump's recent video, We have love and empathy for all people of all backgrounds, races and beliefs, and we feel sick how all Americans' fears and vulnerabilities have been exploited over the last four years, We will not participate in a form of propaganda that pits Americans against one another."[39] On December 23, 2020 Billboard magazine reported that Nico Vega dropped a "Cease and Desist" Playlist on Spotify which listed all the songs and bands who had opposed Trump's use of their songs at rallies or in campaign videos.[40]
Ozzy Osbourne criticized Trump's use of his iconic song "Crazy Train" in a video highlighting the technical difficulties in the first Democratic presidential primary debate, stating with his wife Sharon Osbourne in a joint statement: "[W]e are sending notice to the Trump campaign (or any other campaigns) that they are forbidden from using any of Ozzy Osbourne’s music in political ads or in any political campaigns."[41]
Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco demanded that Trump stop using his song "High Hopes" at Trump's political rallies in 2020, releasing a brief statement of "Donald Trump represents nothing we stand for...Dear Trump Campaign, F--- you. You're not invited. Stop playing my song. No thanks, Brendon Urie, Panic! At The Disco & company".[42]
Pharrell Williams opposed Trump's playing of his song "Happy" at rallies, including one held just hours after the 2018 Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. Williams' legal team threatened legal action, claiming its use without permission copyright and trademark infringement.[43]
Phil Collins's legal team sent a cease and desist order to Trump's campaign after the unauthorized use of "In the Air Tonight" at a rally at Des Moines, Iowa on October 14, 2020.[44]
The estate of Prince condemned Trump's use of his song "Purple Rain" at a rally in 2019. In response, the estate shared a letter from the Trump campaign from 2018 that had promised not to use Prince's music, because they had not received the rights from the estate, showing they had official documentation of acknowledgement that they did not have the rights to play the music.[45]
Brian May of Queen opposed Trump's use of "We Are the Champions" as his "theme song" while walking out to the Republican National Convention in 2016. He denounced its use as unauthorized, where permission was neither sought nor given, and that they were looking at taking further steps should the band's music be used any further by his campaign.[46]
R.E.M. has opposed the use of their music by Trump on a number of occasions. In 2015, vocalist Michael Stipe voiced opposition of "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)" at Trump rallies, stating "Do not use our music or my voice for your moronic charade of a campaign."[47] In 2019, bassist Mike Mills spoke out about Trump's promotion of a video containing the unauthorized use of the song "Everybody Hurts", urging Twitter to take it down, which it eventually did.[48] Later in 2020, Mills threatened legal action over using "Everybody Hurts" and "Losing My Religion" at Trump's rallies.[49]
Rihanna threatened legal action against Trump for the unauthorized use of her song "Don't Stop the Music" at Trump rallies in 2018. Her legal team released a comment that Rihanna has no association or affiliation with Trump, and she did not support his campaign.[50]
Both Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones opposed Trump's use of the song "You Can't Always Get What You Want". The band sent him cease and desist letters about its use in 2016, and upon Trump using it again in June 2020, the band teamed up with Broadcast Music, Inc. to threaten legal action if the song is used again.[51][52]
The estate of Sinéad O'Connor and Chrysalis Records oppose Trump's use of her cover of Prince's "Nothing Compares 2 U", at a 2024 rally. The estate explained that "it is no exaggeration to say that Sinéad would have been disgusted, hurt, and insulted to have her work misrepresented in this way."[53]
The family of Tom Petty denounced Trump's use of the song "I Won't Back Down" at political rallies in 2020.[54] The family sent the campaign a cease and desist letter, stating that the song was written for the "underdog" and "common man", and that Trump did not represent either.[55]
In 2014 Twisted Sister allowed Trump to use "We're Not Gonna Take It" for his 2016 campaign because "It" is a song about rebellion, and there's nothing more rebellious than what Donald Trump is doing right now". However, in 2015, the band frontman Dee Snider removed the song from Trump's campaign stating that "it's very upsetting to me, because I strongly don't agree with his extremist positions".[56][57]
In June 2020 Village People frontman Victor Willis asked that Trump no longer use any of his music at his rallies, particularly the songs "Macho Man" and "Y.M.C.A."[58] After a cease-and-desist order by Willis, usage continued. Scorpio Music, Village People's label, are considering legal action against Trump for using "Y.M.C.A." at his rallies.[59]
Following a political ad for the Trump campaign using the song "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes in October 2016, lead singer Jack White and his former wife and drummer, Meg White, issued a statement that they did not give permission for Trump to use their music, nor were they implying their support for him. The record label Third Man Records asked Trump not to use The White Stripes, or any of Third Man Records material for his rallies.[60][61] In the weeks following, they also released merchandise referencing their final studio album Icky Thump, renaming it "Icky Trump", and including altered lyrics related to the ideologies of Trump and his supporters.[62]
French singer-songwriter and music video director, Yoann Lemoine, under his stage name "Woodkid" condemned Trump for the use of his song, "Run Boy Run" during the 2024 presidential rally. Lemoine also stated that "Run Boy Run" is an LGBT+ anthem.[63] order by Willis, usage continued. Scorpio Music, Village People's label, are considering legal action against Trump for using "Y.M.C.A." at his rallies.[59]
Following a political ad for the Trump campaign using the song "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes in October 2016, lead singer Jack White and his former wife and drummer, Meg White, issued a statement that they did not give permission for Trump to use their music, nor were they implying their support for him. The record label Third Man Records asked Trump not to use The White Stripes, or any of Third Man Records material for his rallies.[60][61] In the weeks following, they also released merchandise referencing their final studio album Icky Thump, renaming it "Icky Trump", and including altered lyrics related to the ideologies of Trump and his supporters.[62]
French singer-songwriter and music video director, Yoann Lemoine, under his stage name "Woodkid" condemned Trump for the use of his song, "Run Boy Run" during the 2024 presidential rally. Lemoine also stated that "Run Boy Run" is an LGBT+ anthem.[63]
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