Beyoncé is making it clear that her music is not to be used for political gain without her consent. The global superstar recently sent a cease-and-desist letter to Donald Trump’s campaign after they used her powerful anthem “Freedom” in a campaign video. Read more inside.
The song, which features Kendrick Lamar and is a key track from her critically acclaimed album Lemonade, has become a symbol of resistance and empowerment, particularly in the fight for Black lives. It’s no surprise that Beyoncé, who has long been vocal about social justice issues, was not pleased when her music was co-opted for a political agenda she doesn’t support.
According to Rolling Stone, the Trump campaign used “Freedom” in a video montage without seeking permission from Beyoncé or her team. The move sparked outrage among her fans, many of whom took to social media to express their disapproval. The cease-and-desist letter demanded that the campaign remove the video and refrain from using her music in the future.
Beyoncé’s decision to take legal action aligns with her commitment to protecting her artistry and the messages behind her music. In a time when political tensions are high, artists like Beyoncé are standing up to ensure their work isn’t misrepresented or used in ways that go against their core values.
This isn’t the first time Trump’s campaign has faced backlash from artists. Over the years, several musicians have issued cease-and-desist orders, demanding that their songs not be used at his rallies or in campaign materials. The incident with Beyoncé further highlights the ongoing battle between artists and political campaigns over the unauthorized use of music.
As for the Trump campaign, they have yet to respond publicly to the cease-and-desist order. But one thing is clear: Beyoncé isn’t backing down when it comes to protecting her music and what it stands for.