Neil Young sues Donald Trump for $10 million for playing ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ at campaign rallies
Singer / songwriter Neil Young is suing Donald Trump’s political fundraising committee for $10 million, stating that it repeatedly used his song “Rockin’ in the Free World” at campaign rallies without authorization — despite an earlier settlement over the same song.
The lawsuit, filed Oct. 26, 2026, in federal court in Virginia, targets the Trump 47 Committee. Young alleges that the song was played before Trump took the stage at a rally in Youngstown, Ohio, on Oct. 12, and at other political events intended to encourage Republican support ahead of the midterm elections.
Young, 80, previously sued Trump’s 2020 reelection campaign over the use of “Rockin’ in the Free World” and another song, “Devil’s Sidewalk.” According to the new complaint, the earlier case was settled shortly after it was filed, with the campaign promising not to use the music again without Young’s permission and a license.
The latest lawsuit alleges that the committee violated that commitment. Young is seeking $10 million in damages and a court order prohibiting further political use of the song without authorization.
According to Variety, Young’s suit specifically cites the playing of the song at the Trump’s rally in Youngstown, Ohio on Oct. 12, although it notes that the recording has also been played “numerous times at other rallies designed to encourage Republican votes in the upcoming mid-term elections.” It asks for an injunction against further public performance for political purposes as well as the $10 million in damages for the existing use.
“Among other things, Young has suffered damage to his reputation and brand as a result of the implication that he supports Donald J. Trump in any way,” the suit contends.
Through his company, Silver Fiddle Music, Young argues that the song’s message conflicts sharply with Trump’s political positions. Released in 1989, the rock anthem addresses social inequality and the struggles of vulnerable Americans.
Young says that the song is “the opposite of everything that Donald J Trump stands for”. ~ BBC
Young has long opposed Trump’s use of his music, dating back to the president’s first campaign. The musician has also argued that the unauthorized performances risk misleading audiences into believing he supports the president.
The lawsuit renews a broader dispute between Trump and musicians who have objected to their work being used at political events. Other artists who have criticized the use of their music without permission include The Rolling Stones, Rihanna, Adele, members of R.E.M. and the estate of Prince.
~
(Sources: BBC, The Hill, Variety)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
Follow Richard on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
