Donald Trump doesn’t ask permission, generally speaking. He acts first and lets others demand apologies later. So it should not be surprising that over the course of his campaign for president, the brazen candidate has used more than a few songs without the permission of the artists who wrote and own them.
The latest to join the growing list is Queen’s 1977 song, “We Are the Champions.” Last week, Brian May — the former Queen guitarist — posted a statement on his personal website, according to The Hollywood Reporter, saying that Trump did not seek or receive permission from the band to use the rousing anthem in association with his campaign.
Mixing Music and Politics
Brian May said that he was getting a lot of complaints about Trump playing the song on the campaign trail and promised the issue was being addressed. Although May made it a point to say that his own statement was not official and he did not opine on Trump’s platform, he also noted that Queen generally does not approve use of their songs by campaigning political candidates.
May wrote on his website that Queen is considering what to do to prevent Trump from expressing his sentiments with the band’s music. “We are taking advice on what steps we can take to ensure this use does not continue. Regardless of our views on Mr. Trump’s platform, it has always been against our policy to allow Queen music to be used as a political campaigning tool. Our music embodies our own dreams and beliefs, but it is for all who care to listen and enjoy.”
Miffed Musicians List
Earlier this year, Adele fans clamored about Trump’s use of their favorite tunes in his rallies, demanding that it stop. The candidate, who is an Adele fan himself and has seen her in concert, relied on a few of her hits to warm up his campaign crowds.
The singer seemed unmoved by his endorsement, however, making it clear he was acting alone. She issued a statement to The Independent through a representative, saying, “Adele has not given permission for her music to be used for any political campaigning.”
There are other miffed musicians out there. Over the course of his presidential campaign, Donald Trump has received complaints from REM’s Michael Stipe, Neal Young, Everlast, and Aerosmith. At this rate, there will be little triumphant music left for him to play if he does win the campaign.
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