It looks like Skillet might soon find themselves associated with a new political arena—one they haven’t explicitly endorsed. The Trump campaign has been in hot water with various artists for using their music without permission, and Swedish pop legends ABBA are the latest to demand their tracks be removed from Trump rallies. ABBA’s statement highlighted that their song “The Winner Takes It All” was used without authorization, despite the Trump campaign’s claims of having the legal right through agreements with BMI and ASCAP. The situation has led to some amusing speculation about which songs Trump might use next, though thankfully, it appears he hasn’t yet used “Dancing Queen.”
Other artists who’ve voiced their objections to Trump’s use of their music include Celine Dion, Isaac Hayes, The White Stripes, and Foo Fighters. Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On”—a song famously tied to the film *Titanic*—was particularly surprising to see associated with a Trump event. One can only wonder what context it was used in, though one hopes it didn’t involve anything as cringe-worthy as a re-enactment of the movie’s infamous “Draw me like one of your French girls” scene.
Amid this controversy, Skillet’s frontman, John Cooper, recently shared his perspective on the issue during an interview with the *On the Road to Rock* podcast. Cooper expressed a rather laid-back stance regarding the use of Skillet’s music at political rallies. He indicated that he doesn’t mind his songs being played at such events, regardless of the political affiliation of the candidate using them. He believes in the principles of America over party lines and sees the use of his music at rallies as a testament to his love for the country, even if he doesn’t support the specific political figure or platform.
Cooper did, however, draw a line when it comes to paid advertisements or commercials, suggesting that’s where he’d take issue. His approach reflects a nuanced view: while he supports freedom of expression and values American principles, he also maintains boundaries for how his music is used commercially.
Interestingly, Skillet has a song titled “Fire and Fury” that seems like it could fit right into the political fray. Despite Cooper’s more tolerant stance on the use of his music, his outspoken views on other topics—like his controversial comments on queer theory and pro-choice sentiments—reveal a more complex and sometimes divisive persona.
So while Skillet might not be pulling a protest against their music being used at rallies, their frontman’s opinions on broader social issues show that even in a country as diverse as the U.S., finding common ground can be a challenge. Regardless of political affiliations, Cooper’s focus on American ideals highlights an underlying complexity in the music-politics relationship, proving that even in disagreements, there’s room for nuanced perspectives.
