Beyoncé's Team Threatens Cease-and-Desist Order Against Trump Campaign Over Unauthorized Use of "Freedom"

In a recent development, Beyoncé's team has issued a warning to former President Donald J. Trump's campaign, threatening to take legal action if they continue to use her 2016 hit song "Freedom" without permission. The popular track was featured in a 13-second video shared by a Trump campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, on social media platform X. The video showed Trump disembarking from a plane in Michigan and was accompanied by Beyoncé's song.

According to Rolling Stone, Beyoncé's team is not pleased with the unauthorized use of "Freedom" in the campaign video. The song, which carries a powerful message of liberation and empowerment, resonates strongly with the artist's beliefs and values. It was even featured in ads for Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign with Beyoncé's blessing, as well as being played proudly at the Democratic National Convention.

The incident raises questions about the legality and proper permissions required for the use of copyrighted music in political campaigns. While Vice President Harris' campaign had obtained the necessary permissions to use "Freedom", the Trump campaign's use of the song was unauthorized and has drawn criticism.

Pitchfork has reached out to representatives of Beyoncé for further comments and information regarding their course of action. It remains to be seen how this potential legal dispute will unfold and whether the Trump campaign will comply with Beyoncé's team's demands.

The unauthorized use of an artist's work for political purposes is a contentious issue, blurring the lines between creative expression and matters of public interest. It serves as a reminder to campaigns and individuals alike to be mindful of copyright laws and seek proper permissions when using copyrighted material.