The Canadian singer-songwriter called Trump’s use of the song “the height of blasphemy” and said he was “mortified” in a strongly worded statement, which coincided with a cease-and-desist order from Cohen’s estate.
Wainwright, whose version of “Hallelujah” was released in 2001 as part of the soundtrack for the animated film Shrek , called the song an “anthem dedicated to peace, love and acceptance of the truth. I’ve been supremely honoured over the years to be connected with this ode to tolerance.”
“Witnessing Trump and his supporters commune with this music last night was the height of blasphemy,” he said.
“Of course, I in no way condone this and was mortified, but the good in me hopes that perhaps in inhabiting and really listening to the lyrics of Cohen’s masterpiece, Donald Trump just might experience a hint of remorse over what he’s caused. I’m not holding my breath.”
“Let’s make it into a music fest,” he said. “Who the hell wants to hear questions right? Isn’t that beautiful?” He remained onstage for almost 45 minutes as he swayed to the music that was played.
Other tracks on his playlist included Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain”, James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World”, “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinead O’Connor and “YMCA” by the Village People.
His opponent, Democratic candidate and vice president Kamala Harris , captioned a clip of the event with the words: “Hope he’s OK.”
One critic wrote: “This song is called ‘Time to Say Goodbye.’ It’s often sung at funerals but is also the perfect song for Trump.”
Another said: “‘Time to say goodbye‘ is the most fitting Trump campaign song that’s ever songed.”
Trump now has an entire Wikipedia page dedicated to the artists who have objected to him using their music, among them Jack White, ABBA, Eddy Grant, Bruce Springsteen , Celine Dion, Elton John, Foo Fighters, Phil Collins, Rihanna, and Nickelback.
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Patsy Garcia
19h ago
Get Can't Get Right trump you have to believe in GOD before you utter that song.
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