The White House recently shared a video featuring Semisonic's "Closing Time" alongside footage of Customs and Border Protection detaining individuals. In reaction, Semisonic condemned this use, asserting they did not authorize or condone it. The band emphasized the optimistic themes of their song, highlighting that its interpretation in this context is misguided. This incident is part of a broader trend of the Trump administration's previous unauthorized use of various artists' music, raising ongoing concerns about copyright and artistic expression.
We did not authorize or condone The White House's use of our song in any way. And no, they didn't ask.
The song is about joy and possibilities and hope, and they have missed the point entirely.
Donald Trump and his administration have a long history of using music without permission, from The White Stripes to Rufus Wainwright and beyond.
In the caption of the video, The White House tagged CBP's official account and quoted well-known lyrics from "Closing Time."
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