Neil Pond
Updated on: October 9, 2024 2:34 pm GMT
White Stripes Sue Trump for Unauthorized Use of Iconic Song
The White Stripes, the influential rock duo composed of Jack White and Meg White, have filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump over the alleged unauthorized use of their hit song “Seven Nation Army” in a campaign video. The legal action, initiated on Monday in a New York federal court, highlights the ongoing tensions between the music industry and Trump’s political campaigns.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit comes in response to a video that was posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) by Trump’s staffer, Margo McAtee Martin, on August 29, 2023. The video features Trump boarding a plane with the iconic riff of “Seven Nation Army” playing in the background. Following the release of this video, Jack White expressed his outrage via Instagram, stating, “Don’t even think about using my music you fascists. Lawsuit coming from my lawyers about this (to add to your 5 thousand others).”
Allegations of Copyright Infringement
The lawsuit asserts that Trump’s campaign did not seek or obtain permission from The White Stripes to use the song. White and Meg White are seeking “significant monetary damages” and aim to hold Trump, his campaign, and Martin accountable for the copyright infringement. According to the complaint, the use of “Seven Nation Army” was intended to generate support for Trump’s campaign without the band’s consent, thereby violating their rights under federal copyright law.
Previous Opposition to Trump’s Use of Their Music
This is not the first time The White Stripes have taken a stand against Trump. The duo previously condemned the former president’s use of their music during his 2016 campaign. In their lawsuit, they reiterated their disapproval of Trump’s policies and actions during his presidency, stating they “vehemently oppose” his approach. This ongoing conflict underscores a broader trend of artists disavowing Trump’s usage of their songs, a list that also includes music icons such as Neil Young, Celine Dion, and the Foo Fighters, among others.
Growing Legal Challenges for Trump’s Campaign
The White Stripes join a growing roster of artists who have taken legal action against Trump’s campaign. In recent months, Universal Music issued a legal notice to Trump regarding the unauthorized use of ABBA songs, and Trump is currently facing lawsuits from the estates of Isaac Hayes and musician Eddy Grant over similar copyright claims. A federal judge recently issued an injunction to prevent Trump’s campaign from using Hayes’ song “Hold On, I’m Coming.”
Arguments from Trump’s Legal Team
Ronald Coleman, the attorney representing Trump, indicated that the defendants have not yet been served with the papers related to this case. While he refrained from commenting specifically on the lawsuit, he pointed to the complexity and volume of copyright issues facing the Trump campaign, particularly concerning music used during rallies.
Impact of “Seven Nation Army”
“Seven Nation Army,” released in 2003, has become one of The White Stripes’ hallmark tracks. Its memorable riff has transcended music, becoming an anthem played at countless sporting events and rallies. The song has garnered widespread acclaim, winning the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 2004 and solidifying its place in modern music history.
Subsequent Developments Expected
The filing has opened a legal dialogue about intellectual property rights, especially in the context of political campaigns. The court proceedings will examine the extent to which the Trump campaign may have benefitted from the unauthorized use of “Seven Nation Army,” potentially impacting future political use of music in campaigns. The outcome will likely hold broader implications for the rights of artists and how their work is utilized in political contexts without consent.
Conclusion
The legal fight started by The White Stripes shows how the music world and politics can clash. Some politicians want to use popular songs for their campaigns, which can cause problems. As the lawsuit moves forward, many people in music will pay attention to what happens next and how it could affect copyright laws and artists’ rights.
