Note to Rush Fans: They Are NOT Donald Trump Supporters

Republicans managed to upset a large number of people this week at their national convention in Cleveland. Brian May of Queen was dismayed at Trump’s use of “We Will Rock You.” Bowie fans had a mild freak-out when the house band (led by GE Smith, the pony-tailed dude from the Saturday Night Live house band) ripped through “Station to Station” (an odd choice, but never mind). At earlier rallies, Neil Young and REM were annoyed by the appropriate of their material. Elton John couldn’t have been pleased with the constant use of “Tiny Dancer” during primary rallies.

Rush fans, too, were concerned over the use of “Limelight” at the RNC Convention. Did the use of this song mean that Rush supported Trump?

No, no and no.

The band’s office has been fielding calls and emails from people concerned what this all meant regarding the group’s political views. Have the Randian themes of 2112 resurfaced again?

Here’s a legal fact: a political candidate can use whatever songs they choose at their rallies. The artists may be upset by this, but legally, there’s nothing they can do about it as long as these songs are played in venues that pay performance royalties. Rush (and all these other artists) may be upset, but…

They’re not the first and they certainly won’t be the last.

More on the subject here.