Leonard Cohen’s estate slams Trump for use of ‘Hallelujah’ at Freedom 250 rally

Leonard Cohen and U.S. President Donald Trump are seen in this composite image.

The estate of legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen says it did not authorized the use of his iconic song “Hallelujah” prior to its live performance at a rally for U.S. President Donald Trump.

In a statement posted to social media Wednesday, the Leonard Cohen Estate said it has learned that the song “Hallelujah” was scheduled to be performed at a Trump rally on Wednesday.

“This use is not authorized, and the Estate does not support or approve of this or any similar usage,” the statement read.

Trump’s rally, also commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence on July 4, took place at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Master Gunnery Sergeant Kevin Benier and opera singer Christopher Macchio performed the song together - signalling the third time the song has been played at Trump’s rallies.

The Cohen estate’s legal representative Michelle L. Rice released a statement in 2020 denouncing the use of the song at the Republican National Convention.

Rufus Wainwright, whose cover of the song was included in the 2001 film “Shrek,” said in 2024 says he was “horrified” to learn that Trump played his cover version during a presidential campaign event in Pennsylvania.

The Cohen estate did not specify whether the estate had taken legal action to prevent its use.

“Hallelujah” was originally written and recorded by Cohen for his 1984 album “Various Positions.”

Along with Wainwright’s version, Jeff Buckley‘s 1994 acoustic cover is also widely known and featured on his album “Grace.”

The Cohen estate’s objection highlights a long-running tension between political campaigns and musical artists over the use of copyrighted songs at rallies and campaign events.

Celine Dion, her management team and record label Sony opposed the use of her award-winning song “My Heart Will Go On” at a Trump and U.S. Vice-President JD Vance rally in 2024.

Also in 2024, Rock band Foo Fighters did not give Trump’s campaign permission to play their song “My Hero” at campaign rally.