Neil Young claims Donald Trump did not ask permission to use song at presidential campaign launch
US musician Neil Young has criticised Donald Trump for using one of his songs to kick off his presidential campaign without asking for permission.
Trump, 69, took to the stage at Trump Tower to the sound of Young's 1989 hit, Rockin' in the Free World.
Young, 69, later issued a statement which stated that the businessman and Apprentice star was “not authorised” to use his song.
"Donald Trump was not authorised to use Rockin’ In The Free World in his presidential candidacy announcement,” the statement read.
“Neil Young, a Canadian citizen, is a supporter of Bernie Sanders for President of the United States Of America.”
A spokesperson from Trump’s campaign then released a statement in response and dismissed Young’s claims, stating that the business mogul is a fan of the musician.
"Through a license agreement with ASCAP, Mr. Trump’s campaign paid for and obtained the legal right to use Neil Young’s recording of ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ at today’s event,” they told Rolling Stone.
“Mr. Trump is a huge fan of Neil Young and his music and will continue to be regardless of Neil's political views.”
Trump announced his bid for presidency on Tuesday. In a live Periscope broadcast from Trump Towers in Manhattan he said: "I am officially running for president of the United States. And we are going to make our country great again."
