Donald Trump’s campaign playlist is facing a significant trim, especially after his recent rally in South Dakota where he played The Smiths’ “Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want.” This choice, audacious and ironic, stirred an immediate and sharp response from Johnny Marr, The Smiths’ founding member. Marr’s reaction was swift and unequivocal, shutting down any possibility of Trump using their music, echoing a sentiment common among many artists whose work has been co-opted by the former president without consent.
This incident is not an anomaly in Trump’s campaign history. His notorious penchant for using songs like The Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” or the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way” has repeatedly put him at odds with artists. From Neil Young and Elton John to The Beatles and Queen, numerous musicians have objected to their work being associated with Trump’s political agenda.
The case with The Smiths is particularly notable given the band’s history and individual members’ political stances. While Morrissey, known for his controversial views, has not yet commented on this latest incident, his past anti-Trump statements suggest potential disapproval. In contrast, Marr has consistently expressed his disdain for his music being used by conservative figures, a stance he reaffirmed with his recent reaction.
As election season heats up, this episode serves as a reminder of the complex intersection of music, art, and politics, highlighting artists’ control over their work and their right to dissent against its unintended usage.
—
Photo Credit: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com