Beyoncé Takes Legal Action Against Trump Campaign Over Unauthorized Use of 'Freedom'

Music icon Beyoncé has initiated legal proceedings against Donald Trump’s presidential campaign after the former president shared a video featuring her song "Freedom" without her consent. The clip, which showed Trump disembarking from a plane, was posted on social media and has since been removed following Beyoncé's objection. The song, known for its association with political rival Kamala Harris, has been a significant part of her campaign's messaging. According to reports from Rolling Stone, the use of "Freedom" in Trump's campaign was unauthorized, prompting Beyoncé to act swiftly. The incident coincided with the Harris-Walz campaign's release of a new advertisement that prominently featured the track, narrated by actor Jeffrey Wright. In the ad, Wright poses a provocative question about the future of America, emphasizing themes of unity and resilience against fascism. Beyoncé has granted permission for Harris to use "Freedom" since the start of her campaign earlier this summer, following Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race for a second term. The song has become a rallying cry for Harris, contrasting sharply with its use by Trump, which has drawn criticism and legal scrutiny. As the political landscape intensifies, this incident highlights the ongoing intersection of music and politics, raising questions about artists' rights and the implications of using their work in campaign contexts.