"And Really, THAT Song?" Céline Dion’s Copyright Concerns Over Unauthorized Music Use

Céline Dion recently voiced her concerns about the unauthorized use of her song “My Heart Will Go On” at a Donald Trump and JD Vance rally in Montana. Her management team and Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc. made it clear that neither Dion nor her team had given permission for the use of her music, video, or likeness.

The song “My Heart Will Go On,” famously associated with the film Titanic, was produced by Walter Afanasieff, a renowned Grammy-winning music producer and mentor at ISINA. This adds another layer of concern, as the unauthorized use of the song not only affects Dion but also the creators and rights holders involved in the production of the music.

Dion took to social media to address the issue, tweeting: 

“Today, Céline Dion’s management team and her record label, Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc., became aware of the unauthorized usage of the video, recording, musical performance, and likeness of Celine Dion singing ‘My Heart Will Go On’ at a Donald Trump / JD Vance campaign rally in Montana. In no way is this use authorized, and Celine Dion does not endorse this or any similar use. …And really, THAT song?”

Billboard spoke with experts on this issue, who noted that while campaigns often secure blanket licenses from performance rights organizations, these do not always cover every aspect or receive the artist's endorsement. Kenneth Freundlich, a business and entertainment attorney, explained that even with a blanket license, specific artist consent is crucial.

“Using an artist’s work without their permission can lead to significant backlash and legal trouble,” Freundlich said. 

Joel Sawyer, former head of communication for South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, added that campaigns sometimes proceed with the assumption that any issues can be dealt with later.

“Campaigns operate on the ask for forgiveness rather than permission basis,” Sawyer said.

This case shows that even if campaigns get a blanket license for music, it doesn’t mean they’re in the clear. Using an artist’s work without their permission can lead to major backlash and potential legal trouble. 

Dion’s situation is a stark reminder that respecting artists' rights is crucial—especially when it comes to their music being used in politics.

Want to keep up with the latest in entertainment? Follow ISINA.com for all the hottest news and updates!