Beloved hitmaker and former American Idol judge Katy Perry is not pleased. Her song "Firework" was used in a TikTok video showing a barrage of military strikes in Iran. In fact, the caption ominously says, "Iran has been warned." That video, posted on July 23, is on the official account of the White House, per People. Actually, on July 25, Perry had her say. She clapped back hard.
'American Idol' Alum Calls Out White House for Using Song in Video Featuring Military Strikes
Furthermore, Perry added, "I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength for people going through their darkest personal moments. To see a message of self-worth and upliftment weaponized to soundtrack destruction and violence is a complete violation of everything my song stands for. My music is for bringing people together, not celebrating warfare."
She Didn't Get Much Sympathy
Katy Perry got trounced by many commenters. Although some argued that she no longer owns the rights to that song, she still took a firm stand.
Wrote one, "Lmao it's not your song you sold the rights. Shut up and go make out with your communist boyfriend." (She has been romantically linked with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.)
Another carped, "You sold the rights to your songs lol - cry more."
Someone else jumped in with this. "You don't even own that song anymore. Nobody needs your approval."
Other A-List Performers Have Groused About the Trump Administration Nabbing Their Music
After all, Katy Perry joins a very long list of famous musicians who are unhappy. Their tracks were used by the Trump administration allegedly without permission. They include, per the outlet, Ariana Grande, Neil Young, Celine Dion, Radiohead, and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few. (Interestingly, Springsteen and Trump have been feuding for what seems like ages.)
Sometimes artists' music seems to be appropriated without consent for political causes that they disagree with. Therefore, they tend to make their wrath known. Nevertheless, we probably have not seen the last of this trend.
