Singer SZA expressed her frustration on social media Wednesday over the White House’s use of her song in a post that promoted the Trump administration’s deportation policies. In a tweet, she criticized the action, calling it “peak dark for the White House to infuriate artists with free promotion…inhumanity and shock and terrible tactics…evil and boring.”
SZA, whose real name is Solana Imani Rowe, reacted to a video shared by the White House that depicted ICE agents detaining illegal immigrants while her lyrics played in the background. The lyrics included, “It’s handcuff season, all the girls are leaving to get the big boys.” The government’s post captioned the video with lines that tied into the controversial theme, mentioning the consequences for illegal immigrants doing wrong.
The White House press secretary, Abigail Jackson, responded to SZA’s remarks, thanking her for drawing attention to the efforts of ICE agents in apprehending individuals deemed dangerous. This incident isn’t isolated; other celebrities have also pushed back against the administration’s use of their music for political messaging. For instance, pop star Sabrina Carpenter had earlier criticized a similar video featuring her song “Juno,” labeling it “evil and disgusting.” Carpenter urged the White House to avoid linking her work to their political agenda.
Jackson’s reply to Carpenter was confrontational, stating, “I make no apologies for deporting dangerous criminals, illegal murderers, rapists, and pedophiles.” This chain of events points to a broader trend of artists speaking out against the political appropriation of their music. SZA’s and Carpenter’s reactions highlight a complex intersection of art and politics, as celebrities navigate their roles in a charged social climate.
Additionally, pop star Olivia Rodrigo has also voiced her concerns, condemning the Department of Homeland Security for using her song “All American B—-” in a video that urged illegal immigrants to leave the U.S. Rodrigo commented, “Please never use my songs to promote racist and hateful propaganda.” When approached for a response, a spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement and appreciated Rodrigo’s attention to the matter.
