Judge Rules Against Trump Campaign Over Unauthorized Use of Isaac Hayes’ Song

A federal judge in Atlanta has issued a ruling mandating that former President Donald Trump and his campaign cease the use of the song «Hold On, I’m Coming» during campaign events. This decision follows a lawsuit filed by the estate of Isaac Hayes Jr., which alleged copyright infringement by Trump and his associates.

The lawsuit, initiated last month, contends that the Trump campaign, along with several allies, has unlawfully profited from the use of Hayes’ music without proper licensing. Hayes, who co-wrote the song with David Porter in 1966, saw his work exploited at various campaign rallies, prompting legal action requiring an emergency preliminary injunction against its use.

U.S. District Judge Thomas Thrash acknowledged the claims made by Hayes’ estate and ruled that the Trump campaign must immediately stop utilizing the song. However, the court did not grant a request to remove past videos featuring the song.

The attorney representing Trump, Ronald Coleman, expressed relief that the court did not mandate the removal of existing campaign materials featuring the song, highlighting the implications of First Amendment rights in this case.

Hayes’ son, Isaac Hayes III, conveyed gratitude for the ruling, emphasizing its significance for artists concerned about unauthorized use of their music. He pointed out the broader impact this decision could have on protecting artists’ rights.

In the backdrop of this legal conflict, numerous artists have voiced opposition to Trump using their music during his events. Notable among them are artists such as Celine Dion and Bruce Springsteen, who have made public statements denouncing the use of their songs.

The ongoing case raises crucial questions about artists’ rights and the responsibilities of political campaigns in their use of copyrighted material. The lawsuit seeks not only to halt the unauthorized use of Hayes’ music but also to recover damages stemming from alleged economic harms suffered by the estate.