Washington:Rock musician Neil Young has initiated a $10 million lawsuit against a fundraising committee supporting US President Donald Trump, citing unauthorized use of his song 'Rockin' in the Free World' at campaign events.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, the lawsuit was filed on Monday in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. It names the Trump 47 Committee and accuses it of copyright infringement due to the repeated use of the song, including an instance at a rally on October 12 in Ohio.
Young's legal team claims that the unauthorized use of the song has harmed the musician's reputation and brand by implying his support for Trump. The lawsuit emphasizes that 'Rockin' in the Free World' criticizes political rhetoric and highlights social inequality, specifically the hardships faced by poor and marginalized individuals in the United States.
Previously, Young objected to Trump's use of his music at political events. In 2020, he filed a lawsuit against Trump's presidential campaign for using 'Rockin' in the Free World' and 'Devil's Sidewalk,' which was settled soon after its filing.
This recent lawsuit is part of a larger pattern of disputes between musicians and Trump regarding the use of their music at political functions. Young's representatives argue that the song's message is contrary to Trump's political stances and should not be seen as an endorsement of the president.