Cohen Estate Rejects Trump's Use of 'Hallelujah' at Rally

WHO:

Deadline - The Leonard Cohen estate is involved in the objection.

Rolling Stone Music - President Donald J. Trump is the individual planning the rally.

Variety - Opera singer Christopher Macchio is set to perform at the rally.

WHAT:

Billboard - Christopher Macchio performed the song "Hallelujah" at Trump's rally, alongside Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Bennear from the Marine Band.

Deadline - The Leonard Cohen estate issued a pre-event objection to the use of the song "Hallelujah" at Trump's Freedom 250 rally.

Rolling Stone Music - Trump announced that "Hallelujah" would be performed at his rally.

Variety - The Leonard Cohen estate objected to Trump's promised use of "Hallelujah" at the rally.

WHERE:

Variety - The Freedom 250 rally is scheduled to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

WHEN:

Rolling Stone Music - The rally is set for June 24.

WHY:

Deadline - It is noted that it is common for performers or their families to object when Trump uses their music at rallies.

HOW:

Deadline - The Leonard Cohen estate offered a prebuttal to the use of the song before the event.

(UPDATED June 25, 2026 04:20 UTC)

At a recent rally for Trump, Christopher Macchio captivated the audience with a performance of "Hallelujah," joined by Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Bennear from the Marine Band. The event took place at 04:20 UTC, showcasing a blend of music and political fervor. This collaboration highlighted the rally's atmosphere, bringing together artistry and support for Trump.

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(UPDATED June 25, 2026 01:41 UTC)

The Leonard Cohen estate has issued a pre-event objection to the use of the song "Hallelujah" at Trump's upcoming Freedom 250 rally, which is set to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. President Trump announced that opera singer Christopher Macchio would perform the song at the rally on June 24, but the estate's objection highlights a common practice where performers or their families raise concerns when Trump uses their music. This prebuttal from the Cohen estate comes as they seek to prevent the song's performance before the event even begins.