Proving that he’s not one to learn from experience, Donald Trump has struck out twice now on attempts to co-opt popular music for his campaign. First The Donald blasted “Rockin’ in the Free World” at his Presidential bid kickoff event, a dick move that prompted a quick response from a pissed-off Neil Young: “Donald Trump was not authorized to use ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ in his Presidential candidacy announcement. Neil Young, a Canadian citizen, is a supporter of Bernie Sanders for President of the United States of America.” (Why a man who thinks—if that’s the appropriate verb—that poor people shouldn’t be allowed to play golf would also think that “Rockin’ in the Free World,” a condemnation of the Republican Party’s lack of concern for poor people, would be an appropriate theme song is unclear.) Undaunted in his taking-without-asking, Trump began playing R.E.M.’s ’80s hit “It’s the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” at campaign events. R.E.M. wasn’t having it. “While we do not authorize or condone the use of our music at this political event, and do ask that these political candidates cease and desist from doing so, let us remember that there are things of greater importance at stake here. The media and the American voter should focus on the bigger picture, and not allow grandstanding politicians to distract us from the pressing issues of the day and of the current Presidential campaign,” said R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills in an official statement. Michael Stipe was more succinct, tweeting, “Go fuck yourselves, the lot of you—you sad, attention-grabbing, powerhungry little men. Do not use our music or my voice for your moronic charade of a campaign.” HUSTLER has loads of ideas for a new Trump campaign song. Just ask us, Donald. Jane’s Addiction’s “Been Caught Stealing,” Brenda Lee’s “I’m Sorry”… But don’t forget to ask the artist for permission, you rich, lazy bastard.
