During recent political rallies, the choice of songs has caused consternation not only because of their artistic merit, but also because of their legality and appropriateness. Take, for example, Celine Dion's Oscar-winning song from the movie "Titanic," My Heart Will Go On, which was recently played at a rally in Montana. Dion's team was quick to criticize the use, questioning the validity of the choice of a song famously associated with a sinking ship. They pointedly asked, "Really, THAT song?" The choice seems emblematic of the Trump campaign's muted approach to cultural cues. It almost shows a lack of self-awareness about their current political trajectory, which some might describe as a sinking ship.
More controversy erupted when Beyoncé threatened to sue the Trump campaign for unauthorized use of her song Freedom in social media video. The incident comes just days after Beyoncé publicly endorsed the song as the official anthem for Kamala Harris' presidential campaign. Beyoncé's legal team sought to end the campaign's use of the song, highlighting a recurring problem at Trump rallies: unauthorized use of the music.
This isn't the first time Trump's team has faced backlash from artists. The campaign has a history of using songs without permission, often resulting in cease-and-desist letters and even lawsuits. Artists such as the Rolling Stones, Adele and now Beyoncé have expressed their displeasure at the unauthorized use of their music, arguing that such actions not only violate their rights, but also distort their artistic intentions and political passions.
What does this recurring problem tell us? Legal ramifications aside, it reflects a deeper problem with the Trump campaign: a disconnect with cultural sensitivities and a blatant disregard for the rights and wishes of the artists they borrow from. These actions paint a picture of a campaign that is not only out of touch with the cultural landscape, but struggling to find its own authentic voice.
Personal point of view:
As someone who values both political discourse and artistic honesty, I find these actions troubling. Music is a powerful form of expression, often deeply personal and reflective of the artist's beliefs and experiences. When political campaigns use songs without permission, they not only dishonor the artists, but also risk alienating potential supporters who may view such actions as indicative of broader ethical lapses. Also, choosing a song like My Heart Will Go On — a song about enduring love and loss paired with one of the best cinematic depictions of disaster — seems particularly tone-deaf for a campaign trying to demonstrate strength and resilience.
Perhaps it's time for political campaigns, regardless of affiliation, to take a more respectful approach to the cultural materials they choose to use. After all, the right soundtrack can set the tone for a movement, but the wrong one—or one shot without permission—can signal that a campaign is out of sync with the culture it's trying to appeal to.
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