Semisonic objects to White House using their song ‘Closing Time’ and says, ‘You missed the point’

Semisonic, the band behind the beloved hit song “Closing Time,” recently found themselves in the midst of controversy when the White House utilized their tune as background music for a social media post. The image featured a shackled deportee, and Semisonic was quick to voice their objections to the use of their music in this particular context. The band felt that the White House missed the point entirely by using their song to accompany such a sensitive and politically charged image.

The controversy erupted when the White House shared a post on social media that incorporated the song “Closing Time” in the background. The video featured a shackled deportee, and it immediately caught the attention of Semisonic. The band wasted no time in expressing their disapproval of the White House’s decision to use their music in this context. They felt that the message and meaning of “Closing Time” had been completely misconstrued and taken out of context.

Semisonic clarified that “Closing Time” was actually about the birth of lead singer Dan Wilson’s first child and was not intended to be a political or controversial statement. The band emphasized that the song holds personal significance to Wilson and that its message is deeply personal and emotional, drawing from his own experiences as a new parent. By using the song in the context of a social media post featuring a deportee, the White House failed to grasp the true essence and meaning behind the music.

The band’s objection to the use of their song was clear, and they did not shy away from expressing their disappointment in the White House’s decision. Semisonic felt that the song had been appropriated and distorted to fit a political narrative that was not in line with the original intent of the music. They wanted to set the record straight and ensure that audiences understood the true meaning behind “Closing Time.”

The incident served as a reminder of the power and impact of music in shaping perceptions and evoking emotions. Semisonic’s response highlighted the importance of respecting the artistic integrity of musicians and acknowledging the personal and emotional connections they have to their work. By using “Closing Time” in a context that was at odds with its intended meaning, the White House inadvertently sparked a debate about the appropriation of music for political purposes.

Ultimately, Semisonic’s objection to the White House’s use of their song was a statement of artistic integrity and a reminder that music should be interpreted and appreciated in its original context. The band’s response shed light on the importance of understanding and respecting the creative intent behind musical works and the impact that misinterpretation and appropriation can have on artists and their art.