Neil Young sues Trump campaign for copyright infringement
Neil Young has objected to the playing of Rockin' in the Free World and Devil's Sidewalk for Trump's campaign
Neil Young has filed a lawsuit against the Trump 2020 campaign on Tuesday, accusing the campaign of copyright infringement for playing the rocker's songs without permission.
In a complaint filed in US District Court in Manhattan, Young objected to the playing of Rockin' in the Free World and Devil's Sidewalk numerous times at rallies and political events, including a June 20 rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, reported by Fox News.
Young said he has complained about Trump's use of his songs since 2015, and that the campaign has "wilfully" ignored him despite lacking a licence. He had also objected when Trump played his music while visiting Mount Rushmore on July 3.
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"This complaint is not intended to disrespect the rights and opinions of American citizens, who are free to support the candidate of their choosing," Young's lawyers said in the complaint. "However, Plaintiff in good conscience cannot allow his music to be used as a 'theme song' for a divisive, un-American campaign of ignorance and hate."
The lawsuit seeks an injunction to prevent the campaign from playing the music, as well as statutory damages between $750 and $150,000 for each infringement.
Neil Young stands out amidst a number of artists that are speaking out against Donald Trump over unauthorized use of his songs. Iconic bands like The Rolling Stones also objected to the use of their song "You Can't Always Get What You Want".
It is an uphill battle for Young as the Trump legal team has always been a force to be reckoned with. With deep pockets the battle might drag on for a longer period of time.
