White Stripes Sue Trump Over Unauthorized Use of "Seven Nation Army"

In a recent legal development, the American rock duo The White Stripes has initiated legal proceedings against former President Donald Trump. The lawsuit, filed in a Manhattan federal court, alleges unauthorized use of their iconic song "Seven Nation Army" in a campaign video.

The dispute centers around a social media post from last month, where Trump's campaign reportedly utilized the distinctive opening riff of "Seven Nation Army" as background music for footage of the former president boarding a plane for campaign events in Michigan and Wisconsin. This incident occurred approximately 13 months ago, considering the current date.

Jack White and Meg White, the band members, have expressed strong opposition to Trump's policies and actions during his presidency, as well as his proposed plans for a potential second term. This ideological disagreement adds another layer to their copyright infringement claim.

The White Stripes, formed in Detroit in 1997, gained widespread recognition with "Seven Nation Army," released in 2003. The song's distinctive riff has since become a cultural phenomenon, often heard at sports events and political rallies. Notably, it earned the band a Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 2004.

This legal action is not an isolated incident in the realm of political campaigns and music usage. Just last week, a federal judge in Atlanta ruled against the Trump campaign, prohibiting the use of the song "Hold On, I'm Coming" following a lawsuit from Isaac Hayes Jr.'s estate.

"The unauthorized use of 'Seven Nation Army' not only infringes on our clients' copyright but also misrepresents their political stance. The White Stripes have always been clear about their values and do not wish to be associated with any political campaign, especially one that contradicts their beliefs."

The issue of unauthorized music use in political campaigns has been a recurring theme, with numerous prominent musicians voicing their disapproval of Trump's use of their songs at rallies. This trend highlights the complex intersection of intellectual property rights, artistic expression, and political messaging in the digital age.

As of the time of reporting, the Trump campaign has not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. This legal challenge adds to the growing list of issues the former president faces as he navigates his political future.

The White Stripes, despite disbanding in 2011, continue to maintain a significant presence in the music industry. Jack White has pursued a successful solo career and founded Third Man Records, while Meg White has largely stepped away from the public eye. Their influence on the garage rock revival movement and their unique minimalist style, characterized by a distinctive red-white-black color scheme, have left an indelible mark on the music landscape.

This lawsuit serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of The White Stripes' music and the ongoing debates surrounding the use of artistic works in political contexts. As the legal proceedings unfold, it will undoubtedly draw attention to the broader issues of artistic integrity and political appropriation in the modern media landscape.