3 chapters across the catalog
ASCAP and BMI have introduced new "political entity licenses" that shift the burden of music licensing from the venue to the specific political campaign. The Rolling Stones and the Tom Petty estate are using these new frameworks to threaten the Donald Trump campaign with legal action for unauthorized song use. Legal experts question the validity of these licenses under 17 U.S. Code 110, which provides exemptions for certain non-commercial performances.
Tom Petty Estate, Performance Rights, Virtue Signaling
The family of the late Tom Petty criticized the Trump campaign for using the song "I Won't Back Down" at the Tulsa rally. Legal analysis suggests the estate has no recourse as long as the venue pays statutory performance rights fees. The hosts characterize the family's public complaint as virtue signaling rather than a valid legal dispute.
Tom Petty Overdose, Opioid Crisis Complicity
The Los Angeles County Coroner confirmed that musician Tom Petty died from an accidental overdose of multiple medications, including Fentanyl and OxyContin, used to treat a fractured hip. The tragedy is framed within the larger context of the American opioid epidemic and pharmaceutical advertising.
