Why Do Presidents Always Play Rolling Stones?
From iconic tunes like "You Can't Always Get What You Want" to the bluesy beats of "Start Me Up," the Rolling Stones have often found their music at the center of political campaigns, particularly during President Donald Trump's 2016 presidential run. This article delves into the reasons behind this musical phenomenon and explores the controversies surrounding the use of archive songs by political figures.
The Controversy Surrounding Trump and the Rolling Stones
During his presidential campaign, Donald Trump was known to play Rolling Stones songs at rally events, much to the dismay of the band members. This practice was not without its chorus of criticism, with fans and contemporaries alike questioning the appropriateness of his musical choices.
Music as a Campaign Tool
“It’s a funny song for your play-out song. When he finished the speech he played this out this sort of doomy ballad about drugs in Chelsea.”
- Mick Jagger, Lead Singer of the Rolling Stones, during an interview with BBC.
President Trump's decision to play "You Can't Always Get What You Want" at his rallies is not isolated. In fact, it showcases a broader trend where music is leveraged for campaign strategies. This choice was both deliberate and quite impactful, with Trump using the song during every rally he attended.
A Freudian Slip or an Artistic Rendition?
Those familiar with the Rolling Stones' lyrics will recognize the opening lines of "You Can't Always Get What You Want" as a poignant expression of reality. This has led to theories that Trump's choice of the song might be more symbolic than intentional. Some suggest it could be a Freudian slip, revealing a glimpse into the president's mindset or a commentary on the campaign's overall message.
The Unethical Use of Archival Music
While the Rolling Stones did not personally perform at the rallies, their name and music were used without their explicit consent. This raises ethical concerns about the use of archival music in political contexts. Billboard reported that in May 2016, a representative from the Rolling Stones told the publication that the band had never given permission to the Trump campaign to use their songs.
“The Rolling Stones do not endorse Donald Trump. You Can’t Always Get What You Want was used without the band’s permission.” – The Rolling Stones on Twitter
The band has been vocal about avoiding any association with the Trump campaign. Mick Jagger, the band's lead singer, has clarified that the choice of songs at Trump's events was not influenced by his artistic preferences but rather by the campaign's need for a wartime soundtrack to energize their rallies. Despite this, the criticisms against the campaign have not waned, suggesting that ethical considerations are often overshadowed by the political momentum.
Conclusion
Music, much like its audience, has the power to influence and inspire. However, when that impact is harnessed for political gain, the ethical implications become more complex. In the case of President Trump and the Rolling Stones, the controversy surrounding the use of the band's music highlights the challenges and debates surrounding the intersection of art and politics.
While it's easy to dismiss the issue as a mere choice of music, the broader impact of such choices cannot be overlooked. The Rolling Stones' decision to clarify their stance against endorsing Trump suggests a strong commitment to artistic integrity and a desire to maintain control over their brand and message.