Sinead O’Connor’s Estate Demands Trump Cease Using Her Songs at Rallies
The estate of iconic singer Sinead O’Connor has issued a stern demand for former President Donald Trump to cease using her music at political rallies, asserting that O’Connor would have been “disgusted, hurt, and insulted” by the unauthorized use of her work. O’Connor’s rendition of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” has been featured at rallies for Trump, prompting a swift and forceful response from her estate and label Chrysalis Records.
In a joint statement, O’Connor’s estate and Chrysalis Records emphasized the singer’s unwavering commitment to integrity, kindness, and decency, principles that defined her artistic legacy. They condemned the misrepresentation of O’Connor’s music at political events, particularly by an individual whom O’Connor herself referred to as a “biblical devil.”
As guardians of O’Connor’s legacy, her estate and label demanded an immediate cessation of the unauthorized use of her music by Trump and his associates. They underscored O’Connor’s profound disdain for such exploitation of her artistry, asserting that she would have vehemently opposed the politicization of her music.
O’Connor’s cover of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” catapulted her to international stardom and became a timeless anthem for generations. Its significance in O’Connor’s career and its enduring popularity underscore the gravity of its misuse for political purposes.
The Dublin-born singer, known for her outspoken advocacy on mental health and social justice issues, passed away at the age of 56 in July 2023. Despite her untimely death, O’Connor’s legacy continues to resonate, and her estate remains steadfast in protecting her artistic integrity and principles.
The demand from O’Connor’s estate adds to a growing chorus of artists condemning the unauthorized use of their music for political campaigns. Rihanna, Linkin Park, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, and others have publicly called for Trump to cease using their songs, citing concerns over misrepresentation and ideological differences.
As Trump embarks on his campaign trail, seeking the Republican nomination for the presidency, the issue of music licensing and usage rights underscores the broader tensions between artistry, politics, and ethical considerations in the public sphere.
