Celine Dion Denounces Unauthorized Use of Hit Song at Trump Rally

Canadian vocalist Celine Dion has publicly distanced herself from the unauthorized use of her renowned song "My Heart Will Go On" at a political event. The incident occurred during a rally for former U.S. President Donald Trump in Bozeman, Montana on August 9, 2024.

Dion, who has sold over 200 million records worldwide, promptly issued a statement via her social media accounts, asserting, "In no way is this use authorized, and Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use." The singer, known for her five-octave vocal range, added a pointed remark, "And really, that song?"

The song in question, "My Heart Will Go On," gained international acclaim as the theme for the 1997 film "Titanic," directed by James Cameron. Composed by James Horner, the track earned an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1998 and has since become one of Dion's most recognizable works.

This is not the first instance of tension between Dion and the Trump campaign. Reports indicate that the Canadian singer, born in Charlemagne, Quebec in 1968, had previously declined an invitation to perform at Trump's inauguration in January 2017, over seven years ago.

The rally where the unauthorized use occurred was held in support of a Republican Senate candidate. During the event, Trump reportedly criticized Vice President Kamala Harris, who is currently the Democratic presidential candidate following President Joe Biden's decision to end his reelection campaign.

Dion's stance reflects a broader issue in the music industry, where artists often find their work used in political contexts without their consent. The singer, who has performed duets with notable artists like Barbra Streisand and Andrea Bocelli, has consistently maintained control over her artistic output throughout her career.

"In no way is this use authorized, and Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use. And really, that song?"

The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the use of popular music in political campaigns. It also underscores the importance of intellectual property rights in the digital age, where music can be easily accessed and utilized without proper authorization.

Dion's career spans decades, with her first English-language album "Unison" released in 1990. Since then, she has achieved numerous accolades, including five Grammy Awards and the Order of Canada for her contributions to music. Her Las Vegas residency show has grossed over $500 million, cementing her status as a global entertainment icon.

As the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign intensifies, this incident serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between art, politics, and personal endorsement in the public sphere.