The estate of the late soul singer Isaac Hayes has reached a confidential settlement with President Donald Trump over the unauthorized use of the 1966 song 'Hold On, I’m Comin’' at 2024 election rallies. The agreement ends a lawsuit filed in 2024, with both parties expressing satisfaction. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The estate of Isaac Hayes, who died in 2008, sued Donald Trump and his campaign committee in 2024, alleging violations of copyright law through the repeated playing of 'Hold On, I’m Comin’'—a track co-written by Hayes and performed by the duo Sam & Dave—without permission at political rallies. Court filings from the estate claimed the song was played at least 133 times and that videos containing it were recorded and distributed, despite objections from Hayes' heirs. The estate had sought $3 million in damages.
Trump's legal team attempted to dismiss the case, arguing a lack of documentation for the chain of ownership of Hayes' publishing rights, which the estate had reclaimed from Warner Chappell in 2014. However, a federal judge in Georgia ruled in April 2025 that the case could proceed to evidence discovery, despite noting some issues.
On February 23, 2026, the estate filed a voluntary dismissal in federal court, announcing that the matter had been 'mutually resolved.' Isaac Hayes III, the singer's son and estate manager, stated on Instagram: 'This resolution represents more than the conclusion of a legal matter. It reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and copyrights, especially as they relate to legacy, ownership and the responsible use of creative works.' He added: 'We are proud that this matter has helped further a broader conversation surrounding intellectual property rights and the obligation to honor creators and their estates.'
Earlier, in a now-deleted X post, Hayes III had criticized Trump, writing: 'Donald Trump represents the worst in integrity and class with his disrespect and sexual abuse of Women and racist rhetoric.' The estate emphasized its commitment to preserving Hayes' legacy, noting his dedication to music and culture.
Trump's lawyers did not comment on the settlement. This case is part of a pattern; during the 2024 campaign, Trump faced a cease-and-desist from Beyoncé and a lawsuit from The White Stripes over similar music use allegations. Post-election, complaints have continued regarding White House social media videos featuring songs by artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo.
