Nineties alt-rock band Semisonic has publicly criticized the White House for their controversial use of the band’s iconic track “Closing Time” in a recently released video advocating for deportation. This misuse of their music has sparked outrage, as the band strongly believes their message has been distorted. In a statement shared on social media, Semisonic emphasized, “We did not authorize or condone the White House’s use of our song ‘Closing Time’ in any way. And no, they didn’t ask. The song is about joy and possibilities and hope, and they have missed the point entirely.” This highlights the band’s commitment to their original message and artistic integrity.

“Closing Time,” which debuted in 1998 as the lead single from Semisonic’s acclaimed sophomore album Feeling Strangely Fine, achieved significant commercial success, topping the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart and contributing to the album reaching platinum status. Although the lyrics metaphorically describe leaving a bar at closing time, bandleader and songwriter Dan Wilson infused personal meaning into the song, relating it to the birth of his daughter, Corazon. This deeper narrative adds layers to the song’s appeal, making it resonate with listeners far beyond its surface interpretation.

The 17-second video posted by the White House on social media features U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents restraining a man while the lyrics of “Closing Time” play in the background. The verse, “Closing time, you don’t have to go home / But you can’t stay here,” accompanies the visuals, which abruptly transition to men boarding a plane, with a border patrol vehicle clearly visible in the foreground as the song’s chorus, “I know who I want to take me home,” escalates. This juxtaposition has been met with backlash from the band, who feel the song’s uplifting spirit was misappropriated in this context.

You can watch the clip below.

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Notable Artists Opposing Unauthorized Use of Their Music by Politicians

Semisonic joins a growing list of artists who have vocally opposed President Donald Trump’s administration for utilizing their music without obtaining proper permission. In 2022, the estate of Tom Petty demanded that pro-Trump Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake cease using Petty’s empowering anthem “I Won’t Back Down” during her campaign following her election loss. This incident underscores the ongoing tension between artistic expression and political endorsements.

In a notable incident in 2020, the Rolling Stones threatened legal action against the Trump campaign for the unauthorized use of their classic song “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” highlighting the artists’ rights to control how their music is presented in political contexts. Furthermore, last year, Jack and Meg White of the White Stripes initiated a copyright infringement lawsuit against Trump for his use of their song “Seven Nation Army” in a campaign video. Jack White even shared a photo of the lawsuit on Instagram, captioning it, “This machine sues fascists,” showcasing their commitment to defending their artistic rights.