Neil Young sues Trump over campaign songs

NEW YORK: Neil Young is suing United States President Donald Trump for playing his songs at campaign rallies, according to a lawsuit posted on the rocker’s website.

The 74-year-old claims a breach of copyright for the use of Rockin’ In The Free World and Devil’s Sidewalk at several Trump events, including a recent rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

“(The) plaintiff in good conscience cannot allow his music to be used as a ‘theme song’ for a divisive, unAmerican campaign of ignorance and hate,“read the draft filing.

The suit, which seeks damages of up to US$150,000 (RM630,000) for each infringement, is undated but the text indicates Young’s attorneys planning to file it with a federal court in New York.

Young has repeatedly voiced disdain for Trump’s use of his classic hits at rallies, asking him to stop.

The Canadian-born musician, now a US citizen, called Trump “a disgrace to my country” earlier this year while coming out in support of Bernie Sanders in the Democratic race.

Several top artists, including Pharrell Williams, Rihanna, Aerosmith, Adele, and the estate of singer Prince have complained about Trump using their songs.

In June, British rock legends the Rolling Stones threatened legal action against Trump for his use of their classic You Can’t Always Get What You Want at campaign rallies.

The same month, the family of rock musician Tom Petty issued a cease and desist letter over Trump’s use of I Won’t Back Down at the Tulsa rally on June 20. Last month, Mick Jagger, Michael Stipe and Sheryl Crow signed a letter demanding that politicians get their consent before playing their songs at rallies. – AFP