Neil Young Sues Trump 47 Committee for $10 Million Over Song Usage

Neil Young is seeking $10 million in damages from the Trump 47 Committee. The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Virginia on Monday. It marks the second time the rock star has taken legal action against the president over the use of his music.

The filing alleges copyright infringement. Young’s lawyers point to the president’s repeated use of the song “Rockin’ in the Free World” at campaign events. The lawsuit specifically cites an October rally in Ohio as an instance of the unauthorized use.

Young’s team argues the usage has harmed the artist’s reputation and brand. They state that the public may assume he supports Donald J. Trump because of the association. The filing describes the song as a blistering anthem that contrasts political promises with the realities faced by the poor and forgotten.

The legal team emphasizes the lyrical content of the track. They note that the lyrics depict societal inequities, including a mother discarding a baby and addicts in despair. The lawyers describe the chorus as a savage irony that celebrates freedom not shared by all. They conclude that the song is the opposite of what the president stands for.

This is not the first dispute between the two. In 2020, Young sued the Trump presidential campaign over the use of “Rockin’ in the Free World” and another song, “Devil’s Sidewalk.” That previous lawsuit was settled shortly after it was filed. Young has previously criticized the playing of his songs during political events.

Other musicians have also objected to their work being used in political contexts. Kesha stated she did not approve of her music being used in a military-themed social media post before the Iran war. Olivia Rodrigo criticized the campaign for using her sound in a video. Sabrina Carpenter called a White House video on immigration enforcement actions evil and disgusting after it featured her music.