Donald Trump’s campaign caught Beyoncé’s attention for the wrong reasons.
Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Donald Trump, shared a video on his X account Tuesday showing the former president getting off a plane to the background of Beyoncé’s 2016 album Lemonade’s “Freedom” song. “Landing in Michigan!! @realDonaldTrump,” the caption read.
The use of the song, which also features Kendrick Lamar, quickly drew attention on social media, as Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has used the song at several campaign events.
While Beyoncé, 42, has not commented on the video, Rolling Stone reported Wednesday that the Trump campaign did not have permission to use the song.
The singer has threatened to send a cease-and-desist letter to the Republican presidential nominee’s team. PEOPLE has reached out to Beyoncé’s representatives for further comment.
Harris’ campaign recently used the song in a new ad released Monday (8/19), on the first day of the Democratic National Convention.
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While Beyoncé has not officially endorsed Harris, she has expressed her support for the Democratic Party on numerous occasions, including in 2013 when she sang the national anthem at former President Barack Obama’s inauguration. In 2020, she posted a clip on social media urging voters to support current President Joe Biden.
However, Harris has officially been endorsed by Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles. The 70-year-old fashion designer posted a photo with Harris on Instagram in late July, writing, “New, young, sharp energy!!! You asked her and our President Biden to do what’s best for our country! Putting personal ego, power, and fame aside. That’s the definition of a great leader. Thank you, President Biden for your service and leadership. Let’s go Vice President Kamala Harris for President. Let’s Do It #kamala2024.”
Earlier this month, the Trump campaign was also reprimanded by Céline Dion for using her 1997 hit, “My Heart Will Go On,” at a campaign event in Montana.
“Today, Celine Dion’s management team and her record label, Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc., became aware of the unauthorized use of Celine Dion’s video, recording, musical performance and likeness of her performing “My Heart Will Go On” at a Donald Trump/JD Vance campaign event in Montana,” read a statement shared on the singer’s social media accounts.
“No permission was granted for this use, and Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use. …And really, the SONG?” the statement continued, referring to its original use in the 1997 blockbuster film Titanic. (People/Z-3)
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