Isaac Hayes‘ estate has filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump for allegedly using the late musician’s hit song “Hold On, I’m Coming” without permission at his rallies. The lawsuit was filed by Isaac Hayes Enterprises on August 11, 2024, citing 134 counts of copyright infringement between 2022 and 2024. The estate is seeking $3 million in licensing fees.
Isaac Hayes III, the son of the legendary artist, stated, “We demand the cessation of use, removal of all related videos, a public disclaimer, and payment of $3 million in licensing fees by August 16, 2024. Failure to comply will result in further legal action.”
Isaac Hayes’ Estate Sues Trump for Copyright Violation
James L. Walker Jr., an attorney representing Hayes Enterprises, expressed disappointment, saying, “It is most unfortunate that these artists have publicly posted on their social media and asked Team Trump and other candidates not to use their music — and yet their candidates keep using their music.”
This is not the first time Trump has faced backlash from artists for using their songs without permission. Recently, Celine Dion condemned Trump’s use of her song “My Heart Will Go On” at a rally in Montana. The Canadian singer criticized the former president for the unauthorized use of her video, musical performance, and likeness at the event.
Dion’s management and record label, Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc., issued a statement emphasizing that the use was unauthorized and that Celine Dion does not endorse such actions. The statement also humorously questioned the choice of song, adding, “…And really, THAT song?”
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