Trump Settles Copyright Lawsuit with Eddy Grant Over 'Electric Avenue' Campaign Video
Donald Trump has settled a copyright infringement lawsuit with singer Eddy Grant over the unauthorized use of "Electric Avenue" in a 2020 campaign video. The settlement terms remain undisclosed.
Man singing into microphone on stage
Photo Credit: Eddy Grant by Stuart Sevastos / CC by 2.0
US District Judge John Koetl found Trump liable for copyright infringement in September. The disputed video featured an animated clip mocking Joe Biden with "Electric Avenue" playing in the background, posted on social media without permission or licensing.
While Trump's legal team argued fair use for political commentary, the judge rejected this defense, stating it was "a wholesale copying of music to accompany a political campaign ad." Grant initially sought $300,000 plus legal fees in the 2020 filing.
This case joins a growing list of musical artists who have objected to Trump's unauthorized use of their music, including:
- ABBA
- Celine Dion
- Foo Fighters
- Sinead O'Connor's estate
- Johnny Marr of The Smiths
Notable similar cases include Jack White's lawsuit over "Seven Nation Army" (recently dropped but potentially refilable) and Isaac Hayes' estate's successful copyright case regarding "Hold On, I'm Coming."
Businessman checking phone with charts
Miley Cyrus singing on stage
Spotify audiobook screens with video features
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