Semisonic Condemns White House Use of “Closing Time” in Deportation Video
Nineties alt-rock band Semisonic has publicly denounced the White House’s use of their iconic song “Closing Time” in a recent video promoting deportation. In a statement shared on social media, the band expressed their disapproval, stating, “We did not authorize or condone the White House’s use of our song ‘Closing Time’ in any way. And no, they didn’t ask. The song is about joy and possibilities and hope, and they have missed the point entirely.”
Background of “Closing Time”
Released in 1998 as the lead single from Semisonic’s sophomore album, Feeling Strangely Fine, “Closing Time” became a defining anthem of the late ’90s, topping Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart and contributing to the album achieving platinum status. While the lyrics literally depict leaving a bar at the end of the night, bandleader Dan Wilson infused the song with personal significance, writing it partly in celebration of the birth of his daughter, Corazon.
Details of the Controversial Video
The White House’s 17-second video, shared on social media, features U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents detaining a man while the verse of “Closing Time” plays: “Closing time, you don’t have to go home / But you can’t stay here.” As the chorus, “I know who I want to take me home,” plays, the footage transitions to several men boarding a plane, with a border patrol vehicle prominently displayed in the foreground.
Public Reaction and Implications
The use of Semisonic’s song in this context has sparked controversy and renewed discussions about the ethical use of music by political figures. The band’s response highlights the disconnect between the song’s intended message of hope and the administration’s portrayal of its themes in relation to controversial immigration policies.
Artists Speak Out Against Unauthorized Use of Their Music
Semisonic is not alone in their condemnation of political figures using their songs without permission. Several artists have voiced similar concerns regarding former President Donald Trump’s administration. In 2022, the estate of Tom Petty demanded that pro-Trump Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake cease using “I Won’t Back Down” during her campaign. Similarly, in 2020, the Rolling Stones threatened legal action against the Trump campaign for using “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” without consent. More recently, Jack and Meg White of the White Stripes filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against Trump for using “Seven Nation Army” in a campaign video, with Jack White famously stating, “This machine sues fascists.”
Conclusion
The backlash against the White House’s use of “Closing Time” illustrates the ongoing tension between music and politics, particularly regarding consent and artistic integrity. Semisonic’s clear stance serves as a reminder that artists are protective of their work and the messages they convey, especially when their music is appropriated for political agendas that may contradict their values.
FAQs
What is the main message of Semisonic’s “Closing Time”?
The song conveys themes of joy, possibilities, and hope, despite its literal reference to leaving a bar.
Did Semisonic authorize the use of their song in the White House video?
No, Semisonic stated that they did not authorize or condone the use of “Closing Time” in any way.
What actions have other artists taken against unauthorized use of their music?
Other artists, such as Tom Petty and the Rolling Stones, have publicly condemned political figures for using their songs without consent, often threatening legal action.
Why is the use of music by political figures controversial?
The use of music without permission raises ethical concerns about artistic integrity and misrepresentation of the song’s intended message.
