Katy Perry Speaks Out Over Viral White House Video
Katy Perry has publicly criticized the White House after her hit song “Firework” was used in a social media video featuring footage of military strikes. The singer said she never approved the use of her music and believes it contradicts the message the song was created to share.
The controversy began when the White House’s official TikTok account posted a video showing missile launches and explosions while the lyrics “boom, boom, boom” from “Firework” played in the background. The post included the caption, “Iran has been warned.”
Singer Says the Song Represents Hope, Not War
In a statement shared on X, Perry expressed her disappointment, saying she was “deeply appalled and angry” that her music had been used in connection with military action.
She explained that “Firework” was written as an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength, especially for people facing difficult moments in their lives. Perry added that using the song to accompany scenes of violence goes against everything it was intended to represent.
A Growing Pattern Between Artists and the White House
Perry is not the first artist to object to the use of their music in political or government-related social media posts. In recent months, several musicians have publicly opposed similar uses of their songs, arguing that they were used without permission or in contexts they do not support.
Among those who have voiced objections are Céline Dion, Bruce Springsteen, Linkin Park, Neil Young, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, and Radiohead, all of whom have criticized the use of their music by the Trump administration during the president’s second term.
Other Pop Stars Have Also Responded
Earlier this year, Ariana Grande criticized the White House after one of her songs appeared in a TikTok video promoting immigration enforcement. Following her public objection, the audio was later removed from the post.
Kesha also condemned the use of her song “Blow” in a separate White House video featuring military footage, calling the attempt to make light of war “disgusting and inhumane.”
White House Responds to Artist Criticism
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung responded publicly after Kesha’s comments, suggesting that criticism from musicians only increases attention and viewership for the administration’s social media content.
As of now, Katy Perry’s statement has not received a direct public response from the White House regarding the use of “Firework.” The debate continues to highlight the ongoing tension between artists seeking control over how their music is used and political organizations that feature popular songs in online content.
Why This Story Matters
The dispute raises broader questions about how copyrighted music is used on social media, particularly by government agencies and political organizations. While licensing rules can vary depending on the platform and circumstances, many artists continue to speak out when they believe their work is being associated with messages that conflict with their personal values.
