Isaac Hayes’ estate has reached a private settlement with Donald Trump after suing the president and his campaign over the unauthorized use of the 1966 soul classic “Hold On, I’m Coming” at campaign rallies. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the estate previously demanded $3 million.
In court filings, the estate had accused Trump of personally selecting the song and playing it at least 133 times without permission. The lawsuit, filed in 2024, also alleged the campaign recorded and distributed videos containing the song despite objections from Hayes’ heirs.
“Donald Trump represents the worst in integrity and class with his disrespect and sexual abuse of Women and racist rhetoric,” the musician’s son, Isaac Hayes III, wrote on social media in an X post that was no longer live on Monday. “We will now deal with this very swiftly.”
On Monday, the estate filed a voluntary dismissal in federal court in Georgia. In a statement, representatives for the estate said the lawsuit had been “mutually resolved” and that the family was “satisfied with the outcome.”
“This resolution represents more than the conclusion of a legal matter,” the statement said. “It reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and copyrights, especially as they relate to legacy, ownership and the responsible use of creative works.”
The statement added that Isaac Hayes Jr., who died in 2008, “dedicated his life to his craft,” and that his contributions to music and culture retain enduring value. As stewards of his legacy, the family said, they remain committed to ensuring that his work is respected and properly protected.
The family also said it was proud to have advanced “a broader conversation surrounding intellectual property rights and the obligation to honor creators and their estate,” according to the statement signed by Isaac Hayes III, president of the estate.
Lawyers for Trump did not immediately respond to Rolling Stone‘s request for comment. Trump previously tried to get the lawsuit dismissed, but a judge sided with the estate and allowed it to proceed. Hayes co-wrote, recorded, and released the Stax Records classic with the duo Sam & Dave.
“On behalf of the law office of Brittney R. Dobbins and our team at Walker & Associates, we are honored to have represented Isaac Hayes, III and the estate of Isaac Hayes, Jr. and happy to see this matter resolved. We have no further comments,” estate lawyer James L. Walker, Jr. said in a statement to Rolling Stone.
