Usher, Cyndi Lauper and More Sing Anthem Imploring Politicians to Stop Using Their Music

By Madeleine Davies  |  July 25, 2016 | 3:20pm
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Gathered by John Oliver on Last Week Tonight, Usher, Cyndi Lauper, Heart, Sheryl Crow, John Cougar Mellencamp, Josh Groban, Michael Bolton, and Dan Reynolds from Imagine Dragons have collaborated on a rousing “Sending Our Love Down the Well”-esque anthem, pleading with politicians like Donald Trump to stop using their music without permission during conventions and campaign stops.

“We noticed something’s wrong and it’s gone on way too long,” croons Usher. “So we’re asking you right now, stop using our songs.”

The song was composed after Queen released a statement condemning Trump for using “We Are the Champions” as his entrance music at the RNC, adding their name to a long list of artists who’ve demanded that their music not be associated or used for certain campaigns.

As Michael Bolton sings, “By the time this tune is through, you’ll be lucky if we don’t sue!”

“That’s licensing. You gotta call my publisher,” a deadpan Usher adds, killing my dream of using “Confessions, Pt. II” for my future senate campaign.

Just a heads up: If you watch the whole Oliver clip waiting for a surprise Bruce Springsteen cameo like I did, prepare to be deeply disappointed. You will, however, get a brief encounter with a knock-off keyboard cat.

 
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