Musicians clash with Trump administration over unauthorised song usage

The Trump administration has once again come under criticism as multiple artists accuse it of using their music and imagery without permission. Sabrina Carpenter, Kids Can Press, Kenny Loggins, Celine Dion and Beyoncé are among those who have raised objections, alleging that their creative works have been exploited for political messaging.

The most prominent recent incident concerns Sabrina Carpenter, whose song Juno was used in a video displaying ICE raids. Carpenter strongly denounced the use, calling the video disgusting and accusing the administration of using her music to promote inhumane policies. She insisted that her work must not be associated with any political strategy aimed at demeaning vulnerable people.

The White House responded by stating that it would not apologise for deporting dangerous criminals, claiming instead that critics were defending such individuals. This escalated the dispute even further.

In another case, Kids Can Press condemned US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth for sharing a manipulated image of Franklin the Turtle holding a weapon. According to the publisher, Franklin represents values such as kindness, empathy and inclusivity, and the violent depiction is completely contrary to the character’s purpose.

Hegseth is simultaneously facing allegations related to a deadly strike in the Caribbean Sea, in which he reportedly ordered a second attack on survivors of an initial strike. Calls for an investigation into potential war crimes continue to intensify.

The misuse of artistic content in political contexts has become a recurring controversy. Kenny Loggins objected to the use of Danger Zone in AI-generated political material. Celine Dion and Beyoncé both voiced similar objections regarding their songs’ unauthorised use in campaign-related videos.

However, one notable exception remains: Victor Willis of the Village People. He has publicly supported Trump’s use of YMCA during rallies, despite objections from other band members who believe the song’s historic significance conflicts with such political usage.

A summarised overview is provided below:

KhaborwalaASN