Singer-songwriter JMSN has asked the White House to stop using his song “Love Me” in a taxpayer-funded television advertisement featuring United States President Donald Trump.
JMSN, whose real name is Christian Berishaj, says he did not authorize the song’s use. His lawyers sent a cease-and-desist letter to White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles on September 28. They said the administration used the song without permission or the required authorization.
The letter says the use of “Love Me” could violate federal copyright law and the Lanham Act. It also argues that the advertisement could suggest an endorsement or affiliation between JMSN and the Trump administration.
JMSN’s lawyers asked the White House to stop using the song immediately. They also called for the advertisement to be removed from scheduled television and streaming broadcasts. In addition, they requested the removal of copies posted online.
The lawyers also asked for a written record of every airing and online posting. They requested details such as the date, time, network, station, market, program and total media spending.
JMSN is among several artists who have objected to political use of their music. Other artists who have publicly raised objections to music use by Trump or his campaigns include Celine Dion, ABBA, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, Kenny Loggins and Jack White.
Controversial ad
The 30-second advertisement is titled “America Will Never Be a Communist Country.” It features Trump discussing communism, socialism and Marxism before showing the message: “AMERICA WILL NEVER BE A COMMUNIST COUNTRY.” The ad also uses JMSN’s “Love Me” as background music.
The commercial includes images from Trump’s presidency. It also highlights themes such as tax cuts, manufacturing and law enforcement.
The advertisement ends with a voice-over from Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White. In 2024, White described Trump as a resilient person who would continue fighting for the country he loves.
The advertisement is part of a series of government-funded television spots featuring Trump. The ads have drawn criticism from lawmakers, watchdog groups and other observers because of their timing and political themes. Reuters reported that the advertisements were funded with public money and that JMSN’s song appeared in one of the spots.
The White House has defended the advertisements as public service announcements. In a September 25 statement, it said the spots were intended to remind Americans about the country and its defense. The White House also argued that the advertisements were not campaign ads because Trump was not on the ballot.
The advertisements include other themes, including what the administration describes as a “golden age of America” and a “final battle” against the “deep state.” Their use of government funds has prompted calls for greater scrutiny.
No to any political agenda
Earlier, JMSN said he would never allow his music to serve any political agenda or campaign.
“I’ve built my career independently outside of any major system and have made it a point to not sacrifice my artistic integrity,” he wrote on X on September 25.
“I don’t have a publicist or anything so being forced in a situation like this and having to comment is ridiculous.”
The 39-year-old R&B artist, also known for tracks like “‘Bout It” and “Drama,” is currently on an international tour to promote his 2025 alternative rock and grunge album titled …it’s only about u if you think it is.
