Rufus Wainwright Fires Back After His Version Of ‘Hallelujah’ Is Blasted At Trump’s Controversial Town Hall Event

Trump is going to run out of music to play at his rallies.


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606 points

Donald Trump keeps usurping music from people who dislike him intensely. He’s done that with Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, Adele, and now, Rufus Wainright. Does this guy ever get a clue? No, he doesn’t and what’s more, he doesn’t even care. This lengthy list proves how much he doesn’t care.

Wainwright is definitely insulted that Trump has been using his rendition of Leonard Cohen’s beautiful song “Hallelujah.” I’m quite certain this would offend Cohen as well. His estate specifically prohibited Trump from using the song.

In a post on X, Wainwright stated he was “mortified” that the Trump campaign was using his version of the classic song. Oh, and by the way, he says he’s “All in for Kamala.”

The song ‘Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen has become an anthem dedicated to peace, love and acceptance of the truth. I’ve been supremely honored over the years to be connected with this ode to tolerance. Witnessing Trump and his supporters commune with this music last night was the height of blasphemy. Of course, I in no way condone this and was mortified, but the good in me hopes that perhaps in inhabiting and really listening to the lyrics of Cohen’s masterpiece, Donald Trump just might experience a hint of remorse over what he’s caused. I’m not holding my breath. And needless to say: I am all in for Kamala!

Wainwright, who has a killer sense of humor as a songwriter, has written songs that are more like anthems, voicing his frustration that the U.S. is such an intolerant country (and believe me, folks, it is.)

Plenty of folks on X (formerly Twitter) were all in for Wainwright. @Lawndinium posted a clever reference to Cohen’s song:

“I’m all for tying DonOLD to a kitchen chair,” they posted.

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@Joy_2020 observed:

“I bet a lot of people thought about you and Leonard — and more importantly, the meaning of the song — when they heard it played at TFG’s rally. I know I did, and I wondered how they obtained permission. Glad to know you had nothing to do with it.”

@rubyinparadise referenced another of Wainwright’s songs that showcases his frustration at living in a country full of so many bigots.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. With love from a dual citizen living through all of this in the Lower 48. BTW, you and Leonard Cohen are getting me through.”

And I’m also including this tweet, from @pete_piccolo, which actually even qualifies as cute:

I’m sure Wainwright would appreciate that since he loves dogs.

If you haven’t heard his version of “Hallelujah,” well here you are. Enjoy.

Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery.



Megan Hamilton
Megan Colleen Hamilton was born and raised on progressive politics and she has long fought for liberal causes. She has lived in the Pacific Northwest, Nevada, Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, parts of Mexico, and now Central America. Her travels have further informed her progressive beliefs in these troubled times. She is currently owned by 10 cats, two dogs, and one naughty rabbit. She actually is one of those “childless cat ladies.”

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