Donald Trump has been ordered to stop using Isaac Hayes’ song, ‘Hold On, I’m Coming’, at his rallies following a decision by a Georgia Federal Court. Trump had frequently used the song before and after his speeches at Republican rallies.
The estate of Isaac Hayes issued proceedings against the Republican presidential candidate, stating that the Trump campaign had repeatedly ignored its requests to cease use of the track, famously released by ‘Sam and Dave’ in 1966. The estate has been granted an interim injunction to prevent use of the song pending a final hearing of its claim before the Court, the date for which is not yet determined.
Isaac Hayes III, son of the late Isaac Hayes, stated that his father would not have approved of the former President, nor wish to be associated with him. He stated, “We have to take a stand that we want to separate ourselves from someone with Donald Trump’s character”, further reiterating, “This is not a political issue, this is a character issue”.
Trump’s representatives claimed that his campaign had already agreed to cease use of the song, having reverted to using ‘YMCA’ by the Village People. The Trump campaign is reportedly hopeful that the matter can be settled pre-trial. Hayes’ estate are seeking $3 million in licensing fees for Trump’s use of the song of 134 occasions from 2022 to 2024.
Whether the Hayes estate will be successful at trial, or if some form of settlement might be reached, remains to be seen. The Hayes Estate’s complaint follows similar complaints against the Trump campaign by Abba, Foo Fighters, Jack White of the White Stripes, Celine Dion and Johnny Marr.
If you have any questions on the above, feel free to contact a member of the team at 0191 281 4000 or alternatively at legal@mcdanielslaw.com.
