Music Royalties: Neil Young Files Second Lawsuit Against Trump Coalition
The folk rock icon is seeking $10 million in damages for the unlicensed use of “Rockin’ in the Free World” at a recent campaign event.
By Grace Kim ·
Neil Young has filed a new federal lawsuit against the Trump 47 Coalition, demanding $10 million in damages for using the 1989 song “Rockin’ in the Free World” at a political rally without a license. The complaint, submitted to federal court on Monday, marks the second time the musician has taken legal action over the track in recent years.
Young’s legal team described the composition as a sharp critique of American political speech. They argued that the lyrics contrast empty promises with the daily struggles of the poor, homeless, and forgotten. The filing stated that the song’s imagery, which includes a mother discarding her baby and addicts in despair, presents a reality that conflicts with the president's platform.
The suit specifically noted that the chorus delivers a “savage irony” by celebrating a freedom that is not shared by everyone. Young’s team concluded that the track represents the opposite of what Donald J. Trump stands for. They are seeking the $10 million sum as compensation for the copyright infringement.
This legal move follows a similar dispute in 2020. At that time, Young sued the Donald J. Trump for President committee. According to the new filing, the 2020 case ended quickly after the former president’s team settled and promised to stop using the song without permission. Young’s lawyers said the coalition asserted no defense in that earlier instance.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the new lawsuit. Young, a dual citizen of the United States and Canada, has remained a vocal critic of the Trump administration. He previously expressed concern that the president might block his return to the country while he was touring Europe.
Trump has clashed with numerous musicians over the years, including Bruce Springsteen, Jack White, Sabrina Carpenter, and Olivia Rodrigo. The latest lawsuit adds to a pattern of public disputes between the president and prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
