The Use of Music in Political Campaigns

Like clockwork, every four years during Presidential campaign season, one or more musical artists threaten or bring litigation against a political campaign for the use of their music in connection with the campaign without prior authorization from the artist. Recently, in response to a lawsuit from the family of Isaac Hayes, a federal District Court in Georgia ordered Donald Trump’s campaign to stop using the song “Hold On, I’m Coming” at campaign rallies. Likewise, the Southern District of New York ruled in favor of Eddie Grant with respect to the Trump campaign’s use of Grant’s song and recording, “Electric Avenue”. On what basis can artists and copyright owners enjoin a campaign from the use of their music in connection with a campaign? How can an artist protect themselves from connection of their music and image to a political campaign? This webinar will explore issues surrounding the use of music in campaigns, including music licensing and enforcement.