Neil Young Wants $10 Million for Trump's Unlicensed Use of His Song

Neil Young filed a federal lawsuit on Monday seeking $10 million in damages from the Trump 47 Coalition. The suit alleges that Donald Trump's political action committee infringed on the copyright of 'Rockin' in the Free World' by playing the track at a recent rally. Young's legal team argued that the committee did not hold a license for the song.

The complaint describes the song as a 'blistering anthem' that contrasts political rhetoric with the realities of poverty. It states that the lyrics paint 'vivid street-level portraits' of hardship. The filing asserts that the track is 'the opposite of everything that Donald J. Trump stands for.'

This is the second time Young has taken legal action against Trump entities over this specific song. In 2020, Young sued the Donald J. Trump for President committee for similar use. According to the new filing, that group settled shortly after receiving the notice. The earlier settlement included a promise that Trump's team would not use the song without Young's permission.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the new filing. Young has maintained a critical stance toward the current administration. Last year, the dual citizen expressed concern that he might be barred from reentering the United States while on a European tour.

Trump has faced friction with various musicians in recent years. He has engaged in public disputes with artists including Bruce Springsteen, Jack White, Sabrina Carpenter, and Olivia Rodrigo. The current lawsuit adds another layer to that ongoing cultural friction.

The case is now pending in federal court. Young's team will argue for the $10 million figure based on the unlicensed performance. The Trump 47 Coalition is expected to respond to the complaint in the coming weeks.