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Over the years–and like other candidates for political office–Donald Trump (who was fired from his political office by millions of people in 2020), has attempted to use music to define his campaign and rally voters. Unlike other candidates, however, he has repeatedly used people’s work without permission, only to be threatened with lawsuits and artists’ public denunciation of his campaign–and at times, Trump as a person, specifically.
Now, as the man convicted of 34 felonies makes his third bid for the White House, the racism, dishonesty and xenophobia that always galvanized his supporters, is on steroids in the face of running against a woman who is also Black and South Asian. And bad news for him: he’s gotten Beyoncé mad.
Most recently, she threatened action against the usage–without permission–of her song Texas Hold ‘Em” at a July 31 rally in Pennsylvania for the openly racist candidate and supporter of white supremacy. On the other hand, Queen Bey–who joins a full roster of a group of headline artists including Rihanna, the Estate of Prince, Pharell, the Estate of Isaac Hayes, Bruce Springsteen and so many others from multiple countries who have said no to Trump–gave Vice President Kamala Harris immediate approval to use her song “Freedom” during her presidential campaign. In an especially stupid move, Trump tried to use it after the VP first walked out to it, putting himself in even more potential legal crosshairs.
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Most recently, she and right after, rock band, Foo Fighters, have objected to Trump’s usage–without permission–of their songs by the openly racist candidate and supporter of white supremacy. At a July 31 rally in Pennsylvania, “Texas Hold ‘Em” from her 2024 album Cowboy Carter used, and last week, also without permission, Foo Fighters’ song “My Hero” at a rally in Arizona.
With so many artists stopping the dismissed ex-president from using their music during his latest presidential run, it’s made us consider what songs–despite permission most assuredly not being granted–would most accurately reflect Donald Trump and his cult-like followers.
Here’s my list of Eight for the Hateful:
“This is America” – Childish Gambino
Childish Gambino’s “This is America” is a powerful critique of violence, racism, and the contradictions within American society. The song’s chaotic blend of upbeat music and stark imagery paints a picture of a country grappling with deep-seated issues of race and identity. The track’s commentary on the systemic nature of these problems mirrors the concerns many have about the divisive rhetoric and policies that Trump has often promoted, particularly those targeting immigrants and minority communities.
“White America” – Eminem
Eminem’s “White America” is a blunt exploration of race, privilege, and inequality in the United States. The lyrics discuss how being white has afforded him certain privileges in the music industry and in society at large. The song also delves into the impact of his music on American youth and the controversies surrounding his career. In the context of Trump’s rhetoric, with statements like “Make America Great Again” and “We’ll take our country back,” “White America” serves as a stark reminder of the racial divides that have been both exploited and deepened by his political strategies.
“Blurred Lines” – Robin Thicke
The song, while commercially successful, has been widely criticized for what’s been called its pro-rape lyrics with its themes of sexual coercion and the objectification of women. The chorus, “I know you want it,” and other suggestive lines have been viewed as normalizing rape–and the echo the allegations and accusations of sexual misconduct that have been brought against Trump (In 2023, he was found liable for sexual abuse in civil court). The song’s controversial nature and its connection to issues of consent and power dynamics make it a fitting representation of Trump’s behavior towards women as reported in numerous accounts.
“Lies” – The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones have also banned Trump from using their music, but their song “Lies” captures the frustration and anger directed at someone who consistently distorts the truth. The song lyrics mirror almost exactly Trump’s lies and his anti-democracy positions.
“Killing in the Name” – Rage Against the Machine
Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name” is an incendiary track that tackles themes of racism, authority, and rebellion. The song’s defiant refrain, “Some of those that work forces are the same that burn crosses,” highlights the connection between institutional power and racial violence. Given Trump’s controversial stances on race and his perceived support for far-right groups, this song’s message could resonate as a critique of the racial tensions that have been exacerbated during his time in office.
“American Idiot” – Green Day
Green Day’s punk anthem “American Idiot” is another scathing critique of American society, touching on themes of media manipulation, ignorance, and blind nationalism. The song’s aggressive tone and lyrics like “Don’t wanna be an American idiot, don’t want a nation under the new media” reflect the fears of a populace swayed by misinformation and populist rhetoric, both of which have been central to Trump’s political strategy.
“God Save the USA” – Pennywise
Pennywise’s “God Save the USA” is a punk rock anthem that critiques the direction of the country, touching on themes of corruption, injustice, and nationalism. The song’s chorus, “God save the USA, this country that you’ve made,” could serve as a grim reflection of the fears many have about the future of the country under Trump’s leadership, especially concerning his nationalist and often exclusionary rhetoric.
And of course, no list would be complete without the one song Trump actually had dedicated to him:
“Try That in a Small Town” – Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean’s “Try That In a Small Town” is a portrayal of small-town values that align with a divisive, “us vs. them” mentality, similar to the rhetoric Trump has often employed. The song emphasizes a sense of traditionalism and a hardline stance against behaviors perceived as disrespectful or threatening, mirroring the way Trump has galvanized his base by appealing to fears of societal change and the perceived erosion of American values. Additionally, the song’s undertone of retribution for crossing certain lines resonates with the way Trump’s incendiary language during his presidency—especially his speech before the January 6th Capitol insurrection—was interpreted by some as a call to action, leading to violent confrontations. This blend of divisiveness and an implicit endorsement of taking matters into one’s own hands underscores the polarizing nature of Trump’s leadership style, making “Try That In a Small Town” a fitting, albeit controversial, anthem for his campaign.
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