Isaac Hayes' Estate Reaches Settlement With Donald Trump Over Use Of 'Hold On, I'm Coming'

The terms of the settlement were not disclosed, but the estate says it reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The estate of legendary musician Isaac Hayes has reached a settlement with former President Donald Trump over the unauthorized use of the song 'Hold On, I'm Coming' at his campaign rallies. The Hayes estate, led by the singer's son Isaac Hayes III, had sued Trump and other defendants in 2024 over the song's use. While the specific terms of the settlement were not disclosed, the estate said the resolution 'reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and copyrights, especially as they relate to legacy, ownership, and the responsible use of creative works.'

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tension between political campaigns and the estates of artists whose music is used without permission. It underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and obtaining proper licensing, even for high-profile figures like former President Trump. The settlement also sets a precedent for how such disputes over the use of copyrighted material in political settings may be resolved in the future.

The details

The Hayes estate contended that the Trump campaign did not have permission to use the song 'Hold On, I'm Coming,' which was originally recorded by Sam & Dave and co-written by Isaac Hayes and David Porter in 1966. While the Trump campaign claimed it had obtained a BMI license to use the song, the Hayes estate argued this license was terminated and that the campaign continued to use the song without authorization. The two parties have now reached a settlement, the terms of which were not disclosed.

  • The Hayes estate sued Trump and other defendants in 2024 over the unauthorized use of the song.
  • The Trump campaign claimed it had obtained a BMI license to use the song on November 30, 2022.

The players

Isaac Hayes Estate

The estate of legendary musician Isaac Hayes, led by his son Isaac Hayes III, which oversees the rights and legacy of the late singer-songwriter.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who was sued by the Hayes estate for the unauthorized use of the song 'Hold On, I'm Coming' at his campaign rallies.

David Porter

The co-author of the song 'Hold On, I'm Coming,' who also said he did not authorize its use by the Trump campaign.

Universal Music Publishing

The music publishing company that the Trump campaign claimed was the license holder for the song, an assertion the Hayes estate disputed.

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What they’re saying

“This resolution represents more than the conclusion of a legal matter. It reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and copyrights, especially as they relate to legacy, ownership, and the responsible use of creative works. Isaac Hayes, Jr. dedicated his life to his craft, and his contributions to music and culture carry enduring value. As stewards of his legacy, we remain committed to ensuring that his work is respected and properly protected.”

— Isaac Hayes Estate (Deadline)

“We are proud that this matter has helped further a broader conversation surrounding intellectual property rights and the obligation to honor creators and their estates. Protecting ownership is not only about the past, it is about preserving dignity, value, and accountability for future generations.”

— Isaac Hayes Estate (Deadline)

The takeaway

This settlement underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights, even for high-profile political figures. It serves as a reminder that the estates of artists must be vigilant in protecting the legacy and ownership of their creative works, and that campaigns and other entities must obtain proper licensing before using copyrighted material.