The estate of Isaac Hayes and the campaign of Donald Trump have jointly agreed to dismiss a copyright lawsuit over the alleged unauthorized use of the song “Hold On, I’m Coming” at campaign rallies.
A stipulation filed in federal court asked U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash Jr. to dismiss the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be brought again. Both sides agreed to cover their own legal fees and costs.
Dispute Centered on Use of Music at Rallies
The lawsuit stemmed from objections by Isaac Hayes III, who publicly criticized the campaign’s use of the song and said he did not want his father’s music associated with political events, particularly Trump’s campaign.
The case was part of a broader trend of artists objecting to the use of their music at political rallies without explicit permission. Hayes III emphasized that the dispute was about protecting his father’s legacy and intellectual property rights rather than partisan politics.
Estate Says It Is “Satisfied” with Resolution
In a public statement, Hayes III said the case had been “mutually resolved” and described the outcome as a reaffirmation of the importance of protecting copyrights and creative works. The dismissal filing did not reference any financial settlement.
The estate characterized the resolution as a defense of legacy and ownership, adding that it was satisfied with the result and appreciative of legal counsel involved in the case.
