Neil Young files lawsuit against Donald Trump campaign for using his music without permission

The Canadian musician, who recently became an American citizen, is suing Donald Trump for using Young's "Rockin’ in the Free World" and "Devil's Sidewalk" songs at political events without his permission.

Young posted the complaint on his Neil Young Archives site yesterday (4 August). It reads: "This complaint is not intended to disrespect the rights and opinions of American citizens, who are free to support the candidate of their choosing. 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 confirms that Trump played Young's songs "numerous times at rallies and political events for the entertainment and amusement of those attending the rallies and political events. The campaign played both songs at a rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma on June 20, 2020."

Young's lawsuit also reiterates that the musician has "continuously and publicly objected" to the use of his songs at Trump's events, with the first objection dating back to June 2015. The complaint also explains that Trump's campaign has "willfully ignored" Young's request to not use his songs, and Trump has continued to use his songs "despite its lack of a license and despite its knowledge that a license is required to do so."

The musician is seeking "statutory damages" of up to $150,000 for each infringement.

Late last month, Young revealed via his Neil Young Archives site that he was "reconsidering" suing Trump for using his songs. He wrote, "Imagine what it feels like to hear "Rockin’ in the Free World" after this President speaks, like it is his theme song. I did not write it for that."

In the same week, Lorde, Pearl Jam, Blondie, Courtney Love, Cyndi Lauper, Elvis Costello and many others signed an open letter asking politicians to seek consent for music use at political events.