Isaac Hayes Estate Demands Trump Pay $3 Million for Unlawful Use of ‘Hold On (I’m Coming)’ at Campaign Events

The family of late soul legend Isaac Hayes has taken a firm stand against former President Donald Trump for the unauthorized use of their iconic song, ‘Hold On, I’m Comin’,’ at his political rallies. This classic track, originally recorded by Sam & Dave and penned by Hayes along with David Porter, has become a staple at Trump’s events, much to the chagrin of the Hayes estate. The family has not only expressed their disapproval but also initiated legal proceedings, demanding a hefty compensation of $3 million for what they term as repeated copyright infringement.

The issue came to a head when the song was played at a Trump rally on the anniversary of Isaac Hayes’ death, an act that Isaac Hayes III, the late musician’s son, described as deeply disrespectful. Despite multiple requests to cease the use of the song, the Trump campaign has continued to play it, prompting the Hayes family to take legal action. They have documented over 130 instances of the song being used without permission, each instance adding to their frustration and resolve to seek justice.

In a detailed letter sent to the Trump campaign, the family’s lawyer, James Walker Jr., outlined their demands: an immediate halt to the use of the song, removal of all related videos from social media and other platforms, a public disclaimer stating that the campaign did not have permission to use the song, and the payment of $3 million in licensing fees. The letter, which was also shared on social media, gave the Trump campaign a deadline to comply, failing which further legal action would be pursued.

Isaac Hayes III has been vocal about his opposition to Trump, citing the former president’s alleged racism and disrespect towards women as key reasons for not wanting his father’s music associated with him. In a social media post, Hayes III accused Trump of embodying the worst in integrity and class, sentiments that resonate with many who have opposed Trump’s use of their music. This sentiment is not unique to the Hayes family; other artists like Rihanna, Prince, and Tom Petty’s estates have also called out Trump for using their work without permission.

The Hayes family took control of the song’s copyright in 2022, a move that has empowered them to take decisive action against unauthorized use. They have made it clear that they do not wish to sell the rights to the song to other entities for money, underscoring their commitment to preserving Isaac Hayes’ legacy. The family’s determination to protect the integrity of Hayes’ work is evident in their willingness to pursue legal action to ensure that the song is not used in ways that contradict their values.

The lawsuit against Trump is not just about financial compensation; it is also about setting a precedent for the unauthorized use of music in political campaigns. The Hayes family hopes that their actions will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider using copyrighted music without permission. They are also seeking a public disclaimer on social media posts and for the family to be credited, which would help clarify that they do not endorse Trump or his campaign.

The controversy surrounding the use of ‘Hold On, I’m Comin” is part of a broader pattern of unauthorized music use by political campaigns. Trump has faced backlash from numerous artists over the years, including the Rolling Stones, Queen, and Neil Young, who once sued him for playing one of his songs without permission. These instances highlight the ongoing struggle between artists and political figures over the use of music, a struggle that often involves complex legal and ethical considerations.

Isaac Hayes was a prolific songwriter and musician whose work has left an indelible mark on the world of soul music. Known for his deep voice and flamboyant style, Hayes wrote about themes of street life, sex, and soul, creating a body of work that resonated with audiences around the world. His contributions to Stax Records, including the iconic ‘Theme from Shaft,’ helped define the sound of an era and cemented his place in music history.

Despite his success, Hayes faced significant challenges in his career, including financial difficulties following the bankruptcy of Stax Records in 1976. These experiences have made the Hayes family particularly sensitive to issues of exploitation and unauthorized use of his music. By taking a stand against Trump’s use of ‘Hold On, I’m Comin’,’ they are not only protecting Hayes’ legacy but also asserting their rights as the legal owners of his work.

The family’s lawyer has indicated that they will start taking down videos on YouTube if the Trump campaign does not comply with their demands. This proactive approach reflects their commitment to ensuring that Hayes’ music is used in ways that align with their values and principles. The family is also demanding that any campaign media using the song be removed, further emphasizing their desire to distance themselves from Trump and his political agenda.

As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Trump campaign will respond to the Hayes family’s demands. A spokesperson for Trump did not respond to a request for comment, leaving the situation unresolved. However, the Hayes family’s determination to protect their father’s legacy and hold the Trump campaign accountable is clear. Their actions highlight the importance of respecting artists’ rights and ensuring that their work is not used without permission.

The case of Isaac Hayes’ estate versus Donald Trump is a poignant reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding the unauthorized use of music in political campaigns. It underscores the need for clear guidelines and respect for artists’ rights, particularly in an era where music plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and political narratives. As the Hayes family continues their fight, they are not only seeking justice for themselves but also advocating for the broader community of artists who deserve to have their work respected and protected.