Kenny Loggins Seeks Removal of ‘Danger Zone’ from Trump AI Video

Singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins is taking a stand against the unauthorized use of his iconic song “Danger Zone.” He has formally requested that former President Donald Trump remove it from an AI-generated video disseminated on Trump’s Truth Social platform.

Kenny Loggins’ Request to Remove ‘Danger Zone’

The video features Trump, adorned in a crown, piloting a fighter jet marked “KING TRUMP.” The scene depicts the plane dumping a brown substance over protestors in Times Square. Accompanied by Loggins’ performance of “Danger Zone,” the video seems to respond to national protests, including the “No Kings” demonstrations held across the country.

Loggins’ Concerns and Official Statement

In a statement issued to NPR, Loggins expressed his discontent. “This is an unauthorized use of my performance of ‘Danger Zone.’ Nobody asked for my permission, which I would have denied,” he stated. He urged for the immediate removal of his recording from the video.

• “Danger Zone” originated from the 1986 film Top Gun.
• The song was composed by Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whitlock, with Loggins as the performer.

Loggins added, “I can’t imagine why anybody would want their music associated with something created with the sole purpose of dividing us.” He emphasized the need for unity, stating, “We’re all Americans, and we’re all patriotic.” His vision for music is one of celebration and togetherness, rather than division.

Legal Context of Music Use in Politics

Historically, artists have objected to the use of their work by political figures. While such usages are often legally permissible, they can be contested when used for specific purposes, such as campaign advertising. Loggins is part of a broader movement where musicians express their dissent against the appropriation of their music for political messaging.

NPR sought commentary from the White House concerning Loggins’ objections. In response, a spokesperson shared an image from Top Gun featuring Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer, accompanied by the tagline: “I FEEL THE NEED FOR SPEED,” without addressing the specific request made by Loggins.

Ongoing Legal Actions by Musicians

Loggins is not alone in his concerns. Other musicians, including The White Stripes and the estate of Isaac Hayes, have engaged in legal battles against Trump for copyright infringement. While The White Stripes withdrew their lawsuit in November 2024, Hayes’ case continues to progress in federal court in Atlanta.