Isaac Hayes' Family Settles Lawsuit Against Trump Over Use of "Hold On, I'm Coming"

The late musician's estate says the resolution reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The family of the late soul singer Isaac Hayes has settled their lawsuit against former President Donald Trump over the use of Hayes' classic song "Hold On, I'm Coming" at his campaign rallies. The Hayes estate said the suit has been "mutually resolved" and they are "satisfied with the outcome." A federal judge had previously issued an injunction blocking Trump from using the song, which the estate accused him of playing more than 130 times without permission.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between musicians, their estates, and politicians over the use of copyrighted material at public events. It underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and the responsibility to honor the legacies of late creatives.

The details

The Hayes family filed the lawsuit against Trump and his campaign organization in an attempt to stop him from using "Hold On, I'm Coming" at his rallies. A federal judge issued an injunction in September 2024 blocking Trump from using the song, though the judge denied a request to force the campaign to take down existing videos containing the track. The Hayes estate accused Trump of personally selecting the song and playing it more than 130 times without permission.

  • In September 2024, a federal judge issued an injunction blocking Trump from using "Hold On, I'm Coming" at his campaign events.
  • In July 2024, Trump used the song as his exit music at the Republican National Convention.

The players

Isaac Hayes

The late soul singer and songwriter who co-wrote the song "Hold On, I'm Coming" in 1966.

Isaac Hayes III

The son of Isaac Hayes and a representative of the late musician's estate.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who used Isaac Hayes' song "Hold On, I'm Coming" at his campaign rallies without permission.

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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 III, Son of Isaac Hayes (Facebook)

“Protecting ownership is not only about the past, it is about preserving dignity, value, and accountability for future generations.”

— Isaac Hayes III, Son of Isaac Hayes (Facebook)

“Donald Trump has been barred from ever playing the music of Isaac Hayes again. I couldn't ask for a better decision.”

— Isaac Hayes III, Son of Isaac Hayes (The Associated Press)

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges musicians and their estates face in protecting their intellectual property rights, especially when it comes to politicians using their music without permission. It underscores the importance of respecting creative legacies and the need for clear guidelines around the use of copyrighted material in political campaigns.