Neil Young Approves Use of Song at DNC

At the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Tim Walz accepted the vice presidential nomination while exiting to Neil Young's 'Rockin’ in the Free World', a song he personally requested permission to use from the artist. This choice is particularly significant as Young previously sued Donald Trump for using the same track without consent during his campaigns. Walz's speech emphasized progressive values, declaring healthcare and housing as human rights, making the song's politically charged lyrics fitting for the occasion. Young's decision to allow Walz to use the song serves as a contrast to Trump's unauthorized use, highlighting the ongoing tensions between musicians and political figures over song rights. The event underscores a broader trend of artists supporting Democratic candidates while challenging Trump's past music usage, as evidenced by Beyoncé's recent legal actions against the former president as well. Walz's memorable moment at the DNC aligns him with a legacy of politically engaged music, reinforcing the connection between activism and rock culture.