Radiohead has publicly objected to the U.S. Immigration and Enforcement Control (I.C.E.) using its song “Let Down” in a recent social media post. The band released a statement today, February 27, promising a legal challenge to the unauthorized utilize of their music.
Controversial Use of “Let Down”
The dispute centers on a video posted to I.C.E.’s official Instagram page featuring a choral version of “Let Down.” The video includes a montage of individuals described as victims of violence allegedly committed by “illegal aliens,” accompanied by text stating that “thousands of American families have been torn apart” by such violence.
Radiohead’s statement demands that those “in control of the I.C.E. Social media account” remove the video, asserting that the song holds significant meaning for both the band and its listeners. The band’s message concluded with a direct rebuke: “Also, head fuck yourselves.”
Recent Licensing Disputes
What we have is not the first recent instance of Radiohead members confronting issues of music licensing. Earlier this month, guitarist Jonny Greenwood requested the removal of a portion of his score from the film Phantom Thread after it was used in the documentary Melania. Greenwood stated that Universal failed to consult him on the usage, violating his composer agreement.
“Let Down” is one of Radiohead’s most popular songs, having garnered over 690 million plays on Spotify.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Radiohead’s response?
Radiohead responded to the unauthorized use of their song “Let Down” in a video posted on I.C.E.’s official Instagram page.
What did the I.C.E. Video depict?
The I.C.E. Video presented a montage of individuals described as victims of violence allegedly perpetrated by “illegal aliens.”
Is this the first music licensing issue for Radiohead recently?
No, guitarist Jonny Greenwood recently requested the removal of his music from the documentary Melania due to a breach of his composer agreement.
What impact this dispute will have on future collaborations or licensing practices remains to be seen, but it highlights the growing importance artists place on controlling their creative output.
