Musician Neil Young Sues Donald Trump’s Campaign For Using His Songs At Rallies
Image via Ben Houdijk / Shutterstock.com and Frederic Legrand - COMEO / Shutterstock.com
Musician Neil Young is suing Donald Trump’s re-election campaign for breaching copyright laws by playing his songs at Trump’s political rallies and events.
Young had complained about Trump’s use of his songs, Rockin’ in the Free World and Devil’s Side, since 2015 but no action was taken. After a long wait, the rock star is now seeking damages of up to US$150,000 per infringement against Trump’s campaign.
“This complaint is not intended to disrespect the rights and opinions of American citizens, who are free to support the candidate of their choosing,” Young’s lawyers stated in the filing.
“However, Plaintiff in good conscience cannot allow his music to be used as a ‘theme song’ for a divisive, un-American campaign of ignorance and hate,” the complaint read.
The 74-year-old also reposted two tweets with videos showing his songs at Trump’s rallies. He added that these uses are “not ok” with him.
Young isn’t the only one displeased by Trump’s illegal use of music. Last month, The Rolling Stones warned Trump that they would pursue legal action if he continued to use their tracks during his rallies.
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards joined Aerosmith and Sir Elton John to sign in an open letter requesting politicians to receive permission before playing their music at political events, per the BBC.
I stand in solidarity with the Lakota Sioux & this is NOT ok with me https://t.co/iPVcFplOHa
— Neil Young Archives (@NeilYoungNYA) July 4, 2020
This is NOT ok with me... https://t.co/Q9j9NRPMhi
— Neil Young Archives (@NeilYoungNYA) July 4, 2020
[via BBC, cover image via Ben Houdijk / Shutterstock.com and Frederic Legrand - COMEO / Shutterstock.com]
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