Brian May Wants Donald Trump to Stop Using ‘We Are the Champions’
Those keeping track can now officially add Queen to the list of acts who don't wish to have their music associated with Donald Trump's presidential campaign.
Guitarist Brian May made his position clear with a post at his official site, responding to what he described as "an avalanche of complaints" from irate fans who've noticed Trump using the group's "We Are the Champions" at rallies after clinching the Republican nomination. Though he insisted it's always been the band's policy to try and keep its music out of the political fray, he also didn't bother to disguise his feelings toward Trump's positions.
"This is not an official Queen statement, but I can confirm that permission to use the track was neither sought nor given. We are taking advice on what steps we can take to ensure this use does not continue," wrote May. "Regardless of our views on Mr. Trump’s platform, it has always been against our policy to allow Queen music to be used as a political campaigning tool. Our music embodies our own dreams and beliefs, but it is for all who care to listen and enjoy. We certainly have not approved this use of 'We Are The Champions' -- I will make sure we take what steps we can to dissociate ourselves from Donald Trump's unsavory campaign."
May and Queen are the latest in a growing number of musicians who've opposed the use of their songs in connection with the Trump campaign — a list that includes Neil Young, Aerosmith and R.E.M. as well as Elton John and the Rolling Stones. Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider initially allowed the use of the band's "We're Not Gonna Take It," but later said Trump's political views forced him to reconsider.
Queen Albums Ranked Worst to Best