Feb. 24, 2026, 9:40 a.m. ET
The estate of musician Isaac Hayes settled with President Donald Trump following a legal battle over the alleged unauthorized use of his song “Hold On, I’m Coming.”
“This resolution represents more than the conclusion of a legal matter,” the singer’s son, Isaac Hayes III, wrote in a statement on behalf of the family on X. “It reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and copyrights, especially as they relate to legacy, ownership, and the responsible use of creative works.”
The original lawsuit, filed in August 2024, accused Trump of using Hayes’ 1966 classic in videos and campaign appearances without permission. The president, then in the midst of a run for the Oval Office, employed the song at least 133 times, the suit alleged, amounting to a copyright violation.
“Isaac Hayes, Jr. dedicated his life to his craft, and his contributions to music and culture carry enduring value,” the family’s statement said. “As stewards of his legacy, we remain committed to ensuring that his work is respected and properly protected.
“We are proud that this matter has helped further a broader conversation surrounding intellectual property rights and the obligation to honor creators and their estates,” it continued. “Protecting ownership is not only about the past, it is about preserving dignity, value, and accountability for future generations.”
USA TODAY has reached out to the White House for comment.
Hayes, who died at the age of 65 in 2008, co-wrote “Hold On, I’m Coming” with David Porter. While his family’s statement did not reveal the price tag for the settlement, it confirmed that the estate was “satisfied with the outcome.” The family originally sought $3 million in damages.
This is not the first time Trump has run afoul of a musician for unauthorized use of their art. Hayes’ family joins a long list of people who have demanded the president stop using their music at his rallies, including Celine Dion, Beyoncé, Sinéad O’Connor’s estate, ABBA, the White Stripes, Prince’s estate, The Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr, Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco and the family of Tom Petty.
Contributing: Taijuan Moorman, USA TODAY
