Trump Suffers a Blow as He Gets Hit With Major Lawsuit After Hayes Family Takes Him to Court
Donald Trump is facing significant legal challenges as the family of the late singer-songwriter Isaac Hayes has initiated a major lawsuit against him.
The dispute centers around Trump’s unauthorized use of the song “Hold On/I’m Coming” at his political rallies, a track that has become a staple in his events.
As reported by MeidasTouch Network on Sunday, August 11, 2024, the Hayes estate, which owns the copyright to the song, has taken a firm stance, demanding that Trump immediately cease and desist from using the song and compensate the estate for past unauthorized use.
The Hayes family has previously requested that Trump stop playing the song at his rallies, but those requests have apparently gone unheeded.
The song has gained particular notoriety among Trump supporters, as it is often the track to which Trump performs his signature dance at rallies. According to the estate, Trump has violated Title 17, US Code Section 501 of the Copyright Act more than 100 times by continuing to use the song without permission.
In a detailed demand letter sent to Trump, the Hayes estate outlines four key demands. First, Trump must stop playing “Hold On/I’m Coming” at all of his rallies. Second, he is required to remove any campaign ads or social media posts that feature the song.
Third, the estate is demanding $3 million in compensation for the unauthorized use of the song in the past. Lastly, Trump must issue a written statement acknowledging that he has been using the song without permission.
This lawsuit represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Trump and various artists who have objected to his use of their music.
Over the years, numerous musicians have sent cease-and-desist letters to Trump, asking him to stop using their songs at his rallies.
However, this demand from the Hayes estate is particularly notable for its specificity and the clear threat of legal action.
The song in question is especially significant to Trump, as it is associated with his rally performances where he showcases dance moves reportedly honed at the legendary Studio 54.
While Trump has a history of disregarding such requests, the Hayes estate’s legal challenge could set a new precedent.
If they proceed with a lawsuit, it would mark one of the most direct confrontations between Trump and an artist over the unauthorized use of music.
The potential $3 million payout, combined with the demand for a public acknowledgment of wrongdoing, could have broader implications for how political figures use copyrighted material in the future.
The outcome of this legal battle remains uncertain, but it underscores the growing tensions between artists and political figures who use their work without permission.