Meta Description: The estate of Isaac Hayes is pursuing legal action against Donald Trump for the unauthorized use of “Hold On, I’m Coming” at his rallies, demanding $3 million in compensation.
Isaac Hayes Estate Threatens Legal Action Against Donald Trump Over Unauthorized Use of “Hold On, I’m Coming”
The estate of Isaac Hayes has issued a strong warning to Donald Trump over the unauthorized use of the iconic song “Hold On, I’m Coming” at his rallies. Although Hayes did not perform the track—originally recorded by Sam & Dave for Stax Records in 1966—he co-wrote the composition, giving his estate ownership rights. The Isaac Hayes estate has expressed their disapproval of Trump’s use of the song, which has been a fixture at his rallies since 2022.
In newly shared documents, the Isaac Hayes estate claims that Trump has violated copyright restrictions by using “Hold On, I’m Coming” on 134 occasions since 2022. The estate is demanding that Trump cease playing the track at public events immediately and is seeking $3 million in compensation for the infringements.
If Trump fails to comply with their demands, the Isaac Hayes estate has vowed to take all necessary legal actions, including sending third-party takedown requests and pursuing federal litigation. Hayes’ son, Isaac Hayes III, took to social media to express his outrage, stating, “Donald Trump epitomizes a lack of integrity and class, not only through his continuous use of my father’s music without permission but also through his history of sexual abuse against women and his racist rhetoric.” He further declared that Trump’s behavior “will no longer be tolerated,” promising swift action to end the unauthorized use of the song.
This latest development follows previous incidents where the Isaac Hayes estate condemned Trump’s use of “Hold On, I’m Coming” at his events. In 2022, Trump used the track during a National Rifle Association rally shortly after the tragic Uvalde school shooting, and again when announcing his candidacy for the 2024 presidential race. On both occasions, the estate publicly denounced the unauthorized use and began exploring legal options to stop it.
The Hayes family is not alone in their grievances against Trump. Celine Dion recently criticized Trump for using her song “My Heart Will Go On” at a rally, stating, “In no way is this use authorized and Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use.” Similarly, French singer Woodkid condemned Trump’s unauthorized use of his song “Run Boy Run” at rallies, highlighting the irony of the situation as the track is an LGBT+ anthem.
As the battle over the unauthorized use of “Hold On, I’m Coming” continues, the Isaac Hayes estate remains resolute in protecting the legacy of the late R&B star.
