Left: Left: Grammy award winning musician Isaac Hayes in May of 2000 (Scott Weiner / MediaPunch /IPX). Right: President Donald Trump listens to a question from a reporter before signing an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Monday, March 31, 2025 (Pool via AP).
A lawsuit filed in relation to the 2024 election against Donald Trump’s campaign, concerning unauthorized use of music at his rallies, is wrapping up on amicable terms. The party that initiated the lawsuit has expressed satisfaction with the resolution.
The estate of the late Isaac Hayes and the Trump campaign have jointly submitted a legal stipulation to a federal court, requesting U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash Jr. to dismiss the lawsuit permanently. Both parties have agreed to cover their own legal fees and costs, effectively ending the dispute with prejudice.
Though no official ruling from Judge Thrash appeared in the court records by early Tuesday afternoon, the case is essentially concluded, a stark contrast to its contentious beginnings.
Isaac Hayes III, son of the famous singer behind “Hold On, I’m Coming,” had initially voiced strong objections to Trump’s use of the song at campaign events. He expressed concerns about the association between his father’s legacy and the Trump campaign.
“I’ve spoken out about this before. I have seven sisters, and Donald Trump has made offensive remarks about women and Vice President Kamala Harris,” Hayes said during a radio interview. “He’s been held liable for sexual abuse. Beyond politics, I don’t want my father’s music linked to someone with that kind of character.”
He continued, “I believe Isaac Hayes’ music resonates with people worldwide, and it shouldn’t be politicized. I don’t want Donald Trump associated with ‘Hold On, I’m Coming’ in any way.”
Litigation over unauthorized use of the song followed, in the same vein as other lawsuits by other artists.
Now Hayes has said on his verified account that the case was “mutually resolved,” referring to the joint stipulation to dismiss.
Official Statement from the Hayes Family and the Estate of Isaac Hayes
The Hayes family and the Estate of Isaac Hayes, Jr. announce that the lawsuit filed against Donald John Trump and Donald J. Trump for President 2024, Inc., regarding their use of “Hold On, I’m Comin” has been… pic.twitter.com/0I5LzoA3NG
— Isaac Hayes III (@IsaacHayes3) February 23, 2026
What did the lawsuit accomplish? According to Hayes, it was about principle and he’s “satisfied” with the defense of it.
“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,” the post said, not mentioning a financial component to the dismissal. “Isaac Hayes, Jr. dedicated his life to his craft, and his contributions to music and culture carry enduring value. As stewards of his legacy, we remain committed to ensuring that his work is respected and properly protected.”
“[W]e are satisfied with the outcome,” Hayes added, thanking attorney James Walker.
