Digital Phablet – Renowned American singer and songwriter Katy Perry was incensed upon discovering that the White House’s official TikTok account used her hit “Firework” over footage of recent U.S. strikes on Iran.
The artist took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her dismay, stating, “I am deeply outraged and upset to see ‘Firework’ used on the White House TikTok page as background music for videos of military strikes. I did not give my permission, I was not consulted, and I absolutely do not support it.”
She further remarked, “I created this song to serve as an anthem of hope, healing, and inner resilience for those going through their toughest personal battles. Seeing a message of self-worth and upliftment weaponized to accompany destruction and violence completely contradicts every value my song represents.”
Katy Perry Criticizes White House for Using ‘Firework’ in Context of U.S. Iran Strikes
Perry emphasized to her followers that her music aims to unite and uplift, not to glorify warfare.
This incident isn’t isolated; other celebrities have previously voiced their disapproval when political entities misuse their work. Actress Ariana Grande notably criticized the White House for incorporating her song “Bye” in a TikTok clip depicting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arresting individuals.
In her comment, Grande said, “Please never use my music in connection with this barbaric and inhumane nonsense. F*** ICE.”
Additionally, artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, Foo Fighters, and many others have condemned U.S. President Donald Trump for using their music to promote rallies and campaigns.