Ladies and gentlemen, we've got some drama in the world of music and politics!
Over the weekend, iconic singer Celine Dion made it abundantly clear that she's not happy with former President Donald Trump’s campaign. The issue? The unauthorized use of her hit song “My Heart Will Go On” at a rally in Montana. Let’s break it down.
On Saturday, Dion’s management team took to social media to voice their frustration, posting a statement on X (formerly Twitter) that left no room for misinterpretation. The statement revealed that neither Dion nor her record label, Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc., had given permission for her music to be used at the Trump-JD Vance campaign rally in Bozeman. They were emphatic in stating that the use of her song was “unauthorized” and added a little sting with the line, “…And really, THAT song?”
Today, Celine Dion’s management team and her record label, Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc., became aware of the unauthorized usage of the video, recording, musical performance, and likeness of Celine Dion singing “My Heart Will Go On” at a Donald Trump / JD Vance campaign… pic.twitter.com/28CYLFvgER
— Celine Dion (@celinedion) August 10, 2024
For those who might not know, “My Heart Will Go On” is one of Dion’s most famous songs, and it was the soundtrack of the blockbuster movie Titanic. Released in 1997, the song became a global phenomenon, cementing Dion's status as a musical legend. So, it’s no surprise that she’d be protective of how and where it’s used, especially when it comes to political events.
And this isn’t the first time Trump’s campaign has ruffled feathers in the music industry. Over the years, several other big-name artists, including the Rolling Stones, Rihanna, and Axl Rose, have also objected to their music being played at Trump’s rallies without permission. It seems this is a recurring issue, and artists are increasingly vocal about it.
But let’s take a moment to talk about Celine Dion’s recent activities. After a long hiatus from the stage due to her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), a rare neurological disorder, the Grammy winner made a triumphant return to the spotlight.
In a moment that wowed the world, Dion performed at the opening ceremony for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, singing Edith Piaf’s “Hymne A L’Amour” on a stage set against the iconic Eiffel Tower. It was a powerful moment, especially considering the health challenges she’s been facing.
Dion’s health journey has been a tough one. Back in 2021, she had to pause her Las Vegas residency, and not long after, she publicly revealed her struggle with SPS, a condition that causes severe muscle stiffness and spasms. In an interview with Vogue France earlier this year, Dion opened up about the impact of the illness on her life and career, expressing her hope to “find a miracle.”