The Isaac Hayes Estate’s recent legal action against Donald Trump and his affiliates marks a critical moment in the fight for artistic rights and the protection of creative legacies. At the heart of this lawsuit lies the unauthorized use of the iconic song "Hold On, I'm Coming," co-written by the late Isaac Hayes, at Trump’s campaign rallies. With over 134 documented instances of infringement since May 2022, the estate has been compelled to take a stand against what it describes as "willful and brazen" copyright violations. As part of this effort, Carter Media Group proudly supported the estate by crafting and executing a strategic public relations campaign to amplify the family’s message and mobilize public support for their cause.
The Infringement: A Violation of Rights and Values
From 2022 to 2024, Trump and his campaign continued to use "Hold On, I'm Coming" despite repeated cease-and-desist notices. The estate, represented by Attorney James L. Walker, Jr., filed a lawsuit in the Northern District of Georgia, naming Trump, the Republican National Committee, Turning Point USA, the NRA, and other organizations as defendants. The campaign’s use of the track without permission, alongside its failure to respond to a discounted $3 million licensing fee demand by the August 16, 2024, deadline, led the estate to pursue a judge’s permanent injunction to end the unauthorized usage.
Isaac Hayes III, son of the legendary musician, made the family’s position clear: “A musical performer’s art is a reflection of their soul, not a tool for promoting hatred or bigotry. We don’t want my father’s work associated with Donald Trump’s character, his history of sexual abuse, or his divisive rhetoric.” The infringement was not only a violation of copyright law but also a violation of the principles that Hayes, Jr., embodied—integrity, respect, and advocacy for justice.
Carter Media Group’s Strategic Role
Carter Media Group collaborated closely with the Hayes family, Attorney Gerald Griggs, and Attorney James L. Walker, Jr., to design a public relations strategy that elevated the case's visibility and clarified the estate’s intentions. The campaign focused on three critical goals:
1. Public Awareness: Carter Media Group ensured that the lawsuit’s narrative reached national and international audiences. From social media to traditional news outlets, the campaign highlighted the ongoing infringement, the family’s demands, and the broader implications for artists' rights.
2. Media Engagement: Isaac Hayes III appeared on CNN’s “First of All With Victor Blackwell,” where he and Attorney Walker provided an in-depth explanation of the estate’s legal action. These appearances were key to articulating why the family’s fight was not just about a song but about preserving an artistic legacy.
3. Unified Messaging: Carter Media Group helped craft impactful statements, including the estate’s demand for the cessation of the song’s use, the removal of all related videos, and a public disclaimer from the Trump campaign acknowledging the lack of authorization. “Failure to comply,” the notice read, “will result in further legal action, with potential damages starting at $150,000 per use.”
The Broader Implications for Artists’ Rights
The lawsuit shines a spotlight on a recurring issue: the unauthorized use of artists' work by political campaigns. Hayes III emphasized that the legal action is not politically motivated but rather an effort to protect his father’s legacy from being co-opted by individuals whose values starkly contrast with those of the Hayes family.
This case also serves as a rallying cry for artists to demand respect for their intellectual property. As Hayes III stated, “It’s time for all artists to unite and demand respect for their creative legacies.” By holding Trump and his affiliates accountable, the Hayes Estate aims to set a precedent that deters future violations.
Moving Forward: A Commitment to Justice
Carter Media Group stands with the Hayes family in their pursuit of justice. This lawsuit is about more than just monetary compensation; it is about preserving the soul and integrity of an artist’s work. By leveraging strategic communication and media outreach, Carter Media Group ensured that this case resonated with audiences far and wide, underscoring the importance of protecting creative legacies from exploitation.
The Isaac Hayes Estate’s fight is far from over, but the message is clear: artists’ voices will not be silenced, and their legacies will not be tarnished. Together, with the unwavering support of legal and PR professionals, the family remains committed to defending the rights and integrity of a musical icon.
