Isaac Hayes’ Estate Reaches Settlement With Trump for Unauthorized Use of “Hold on, I’m Coming”

Hollywood Reporter

by Carly Thomas

February 24, 2026

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The estate of Isaac Hayes has reached a settlement with Donald Trump after suing him for unauthorized use of the song "Hold On, I’m Coming" at numerous political rallies. The family of the late soul icon confirmed that they are satisfied with the outcome of the legal battle, which centered on copyright infringement and the misuse of Hayes' creative work. While the specific terms of the settlement were not disclosed, court documents indicate that all parties agreed to the dismissal of the case, with each side covering their own legal fees. The lawsuit was filed in August 2024 after Trump’s campaign repeatedly used the 1967 hit song—written by Hayes and his songwriting partner David Porter—at over 130 rallies between 2022 and 2024, including the 2024 Republican National Convention. The family expressed their discomfort with the association of Hayes’ music with Trump’s campaign, particularly given the president’s history of controversial rhetoric and actions, including sexual misconduct allegations and divisive policies. In a statement, the Hayes estate emphasized the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and preserving the legacy of Isaac Hayes Jr., who dedicated his life to his craft. They highlighted how this resolution not only addresses the legal matter but also reinforces the need for respectful use of creative works. The family had previously spoken out against Trump’s misuse of their father’s music, calling it a tool for promoting hatred and bigotry. The case gained attention due to its intersection of entertainment, politics, and intellectual property law. It sparked broader conversations about the responsible use of artists’ work in political campaigns and the importance of honoring creators’ rights. The outcome serves as a reminder of the challenges artists face in protecting their creative legacies from being co-opted for political gain. Overall, this settlement underscores the significance of copyright protection and the ethical use of music in public spaces, particularly in highly charged political environments. It also highlights the ongoing efforts by artists and their

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/24/2026