The White Stripes have taken their battle against former President Donald Trump to the courts. Jack White and Meg White, the duo behind the iconic rock band, have filed a lawsuit claiming copyright infringement after their hit "Seven Nation Army" was used without permission in a campaign video shared by Trump's team.
According to various reports, the lawsuit was formally lodged on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The Whites allege Trump and his campaign engaged in “flagrant misappropriation” of their 2003 anthem when the song played over footage of Trump boarding his plane for campaign trips to Michigan and Wisconsin.
Responses to unauthorized music use by Trump's campaign have become more common. Earlier this year, the Swedish band ABBA similarly demanded Trump cease playing their music during rallies, following the unauthorized use of their classic hits. Jack White's legal action adds to the list of musicians speaking out against the former president's campaign for using their music without consent.
"Oh....Don’t even think about using my music you fascists," Jack White wrote on Instagram after the campaign shared the video, threatening legal action. He also expressed disgust at the disrespect the Trump campaign showed to veterans during another incident involving Arlington National Cemetery. Calling Trump "scum," White followed up with, "You should lose every military family’s vote immediately from this if anything makes sense anymore," after allegations surfaced of campaign staff pushing aside cemetery workers during the visit.
The suit outlines the deep opposition Jack and Meg White feel toward Trump’s policies and actions during his presidency and the agenda he has proposed for another term. They stated they had previously denounced Trump's use of their song during his 2016 campaign, which makes this more than just about copyright; it’s about public values and representation.
Trump's campaign has become notorious for using songs by various artists without permission. After the White Stripes' lawsuit was filed, it became evident they are not alone. Several high-profile musicians, including Beyoncé, Céline Dion, and the estate of Isaac Hayes, have taken or threatened legal action against Trump for the same violations. A federal judge recently ruled against the Trump campaign's use of Isaac Hayes' song "Hold On, I’m Coming," making it the first basis for stopping Trump from utilizing copyrighted music at his events this election season.
The legal documentation filed by the White Stripes colors their complaint with the argument they have not only the right to control who uses their music but also to protect their image and values as artists. “This machine sues fascists,” Jack White succinctly stated, referencing Woody Guthrie's famous slogan, "This machine kills fascists." It’s indicative of the band’s stance against the political appropriation of their work.
Musicians are increasingly unwilling to allow their art to be co-opted for political gain, especially by figures they vehemently oppose. Through the lawsuit, the White Stripes are seeking monetary damages for the alleged misuse of their song and are determined to hold the Trump campaign accountable during this contentious election period.
The lawsuit’s outcome may resonate beyond just the band and Trump; it raises important questions about music rights, artist consent, and political campaigns going forward. Artists are taking strong stands against unauthorized usage of their work, and as litigation continues to emerge, the broader industry is watching closely.
It remains to be seen how Trump and his campaign will respond legally to the White Stripes’ lawsuit and whether this trend of artists challenging misuse will continue. What’s clear, though, is this isn’t just about the music. It’s about artists reclaiming their voice and controlling how their work is associated with political figures and agendas they reject.
With millions of dollars and reputations on the line, this trial could set precedents for future political campaigns and artist rights alike. Jack and Meg White's decision to jump back onto the public stage through legal means indicates they’re willing to fight for their artistry and beliefs against the backdrop of the political arena.
