The estate of renowned singer and songwriter Isaac Hayes has reached a settlement with former President Donald Trump concerning the unauthorized use of the classic song "Hold On, I'm Coming" during his campaign rallies.This lawsuit, filed in August 2024, accused Trump of using the song without permission at least 133 times in his 2020 and 2024 presidential campaigns.
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apnews.comusnews.comIsaac Hayes III, Hayes' son and estate manager, announced the settlement via a statement on the social platform X, expressing satisfaction with the outcome.The statement, however, did not disclose the specifics of the agreement reached between the parties.
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apnews.comThe legal action alleged that Trump's campaign recorded and utilized the song in videos and public appearances, infringing on the copyright held by Hayes' estate.The estate demanded damages for this unauthorized use, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of creators and their legacies.
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rollingstone.combillboard.comUS District Judge Thomas Thrash had previously granted a preliminary injunction in September 2024, ordering the Trump campaign to cease using the song in any further appearances or videos.Trump's legal team contended that they had already discontinued its use prior to the ruling.
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usnews.comclickorlando.comIn a broader context, the lawsuit brought attention to ongoing issues surrounding artists' rights and the unauthorized use of their work in political contexts.Over the years, several artists, including Celine Dion and ABBA, have voiced objections to Trump using their music during campaign events.This pattern has led to multiple legal disputes for Trump, highlighting the tension between political campaigns and artistic ownership.
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apnews.comusnews.comThe Hayes estate's statement following the settlement noted that the resolution goes beyond merely concluding a legal dispute; it serves to reaffirm the significance of protecting intellectual property rights in music and culture.Isaac Hayes III stated that the matter helped further a vital conversation about the importance of honoring creators and their estates, ensuring that their contributions are respected and protected for future generations.
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rollingstone.combillboard.comWhile Trump's lawyers did not provide immediate comments following the settlement announcement, previous court filings indicated that they sought to dismiss the lawsuit based on arguments that the Hayes estate could not adequately prove ownership of the song's copyright.Nonetheless, the court ruled that the case had sufficient merit to proceed, ultimately leading to this settlement.
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rollingstone.combillboard.comThis case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the intersection of politics and the arts, especially as campaigns increasingly rely on popular music to energize their messages.The resolution of the Hayes estate's lawsuit contributes to an ongoing dialogue about the ethical and legal implications of using creative works without permission, particularly in politically charged environments.
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usnews.comclickorlando.comThe settlement not only addresses the immediate concerns of the Hayes estate but also emphasizes the importance of integrity and respect within the realm of intellectual property rights in the music industry.As discussions about artists' rights continue, this case may set a precedent for future disputes involving copyright and unauthorized use in political contexts.
