Old Man, Take a Look At My Rights: Can Creators Stop Trump From Using Their Songs In an Online World?
(WorldNews Music)

Creators often object to the use of their songs at campaign events. But songwriters' disdain for Trump — and the online nature of this campaign — could lead to a new level of legal wrangling. It`s as much a part of presidential campaigns as reporters interviewing voters in swing-state diners: Candidate, usually Republican, plays song at rally; creator objects; creator`s lawyer sends cease-and-desist letter. Traditionally, that`s where the issue ends. Most candidates are reluctant to alienate songwriters, even though the public performance licenses they have — from ASCAP or BMI, for example — usually allow them to play their compositions. Nothing about this presidential campaign is...