Published: February 3, 2020
When politics meets the soundtrack of rebellion
From sports to art and music, presidents of the United States have often revealed intriguing personal tastes beyond politics. And no matter how polarizing his persona might be, Donald Trump is no exception. Behind the constant headlines and political storms, there’s a man who still turns up the volume to some good old rock and roll.
Despite being publicly rejected by several artists who have demanded that he stop using their songs during his campaigns, Trump has made it clear that he’s not just a casual listener, he’s a genuine fan of classic rock, the music that shaped his generation.
Like many baby boomers, Trump gravitates toward the sound of the 60s, 70s, and 80s songs that echo his youth. He has openly expressed admiration for Neil Young, once saying, “I’ve listened to Neil Young’s music for years. His voice is perfect and haunting.”
He’s also made no secret of his preference for The Rolling Stones over The Beatles. At his rallies, Stones anthems such as “Start Me Up” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” have blasted through the speakers as unofficial campaign soundtracks.
Other rock giants have also appeared in Trump’s playlists. Queen, Elton John, Twisted Sister, and AC/DC have all been used in his political rallies at some point. The rebellious energy of Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It” became a brief anthem for Trump’s campaign until frontman Dee Snider a longtime acquaintance asked him to stop using it, citing political disagreements.
Meanwhile, AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck”, from the 1990 album The Razors Edge, has become a defining sound for Trump’s rallies. The track’s thunderous power and warlike rhythm fit perfectly with his larger than life persona and public events.
Trump’s musical interests, however, aren’t confined to rock. He has spoken fondly of Tony Bennett, calling him one of his favorites, and even mentioned enjoying reggae. In his 2004 book Think Like a Billionaire, he recalled hearing Toots & The Maytals rehearsing for Saturday Night Live:
“They sounded phenomenal, and I went out to listen for a while. My daughter Ivanka had told me how great they were and she was right.”
Surprisingly, Trump has also expressed appreciation for Eminem, a rapper who later turned against him in one of his most infamous freestyles. According to the BBC, Trump once called Eminem “a great talent,” though the sentiment was never mutual.
In a twist of irony, Trump once revealed that his favorite song is “Is That All There Is?” by Peggy Lee, a melancholy classic from the late 1960s. The song’s existential lyrics about disillusionment and resilience, paint an oddly fitting portrait for a man whose life has been both glamorous and chaotic. “It’s a great song,” Trump said. “A very interesting one, especially sung by someone who lived a troubled life.”
While many artists, from The Rolling Stones to Neil Young, have publicly distanced themselves from him, others like Kanye West, Kid Rock, Azealia Banks, and Aaron Carter have expressed admiration or support.
Love him or hate him, one thing is certain: Donald Trump listens like a rocker drawn to the loud, the defiant, and the unforgettable. His taste in music mirrors his persona: unapologetic, nostalgic, and larger than life.
