Beyoncé’s legal action after Trump uses her song ‘Freedom’ explained

Donald Trump’s campaign has once again stirred controversy with the unauthorized use of Beyoncé’s song “Freedom,” potentially leading to legal consequences. The song choice is particularly striking given its context and the current political landscape.

A spokesman for the Trump campaign, Steven Cheung, posted a video on social media featuring the former president walking off a plane in Michigan. The video was set to “Freedom” from Beyoncé’s album “Lemonade” and includes powerful lyrics such as “I break chains all by myself/Won’t let my freedom rot in hell.”

Beyoncé’s team acted swiftly in response to the unauthorized use of the song. According to a Rolling Stone report, the singer threatened to send a cease-and-desist letter to the campaign. While the video remained up on X at the time of the report, it has since been taken down by Cheung.

The choice of “Freedom” appears to be a calculated move considering its association with the Democratic campaign of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. The track has become an unofficial anthem for the Harris-Walz campaign, having been introduced in the Vice President’s first Presidential spot after she announced her candidacy, taking over from Joe Biden.

Beyoncé’s team has authorized the Harris-Walz campaign’s use of the song, with the singer herself showing support for the Vice President. She even invited Harris to her Renaissance Tour last August. While Beyoncé has not officially endorsed Harris for President, her mother, Tina Knowles, has been a vocal supporter of the Harris-Walz campaign. The song has been used during the Democratic National Convention (DNC), and there are rumors that Beyoncé might make a surprise appearance on the final night when Kamala officially accepts her nomination for President.

As for Beyoncé performing at the DNC, nothing is confirmed yet. DNC chair Jaime Harrison responded to a CBS Mornings inquiry with a vague comment: “Every day, she’s in here singing ‘Freedom’ — at least we hear it across the intercom.” Other performances at the Convention have included John Legend, Stevie Wonder, Mickey Guyton, and Lil Jon.

There is also speculation about a surprise appearance by Taylor Swift, who recently wrapped up the European leg of her Eras Tour. However, Swift has not publicly endorsed the Democratic campaign, making this rumor more uncertain.

Source: HELLO! Magazine, Rolling Stone