Rock Band Takes Bold Action After Political Message Features Iconic Song

Semisonic, the ’90s alternative rock trio, has recently found themselves at odds with the White House and Border Patrol after their hit song “Closing Time” was used in a video portraying deportation. The controversial video was shared on social media by the official accounts of the White House and Border Patrol, showing individuals being deported to the tune of Semisonic’s 1998 hit.

In the video, a snippet of “Closing Time” is played, with the lyrics “closing time / you don’t have to go home but you can’t stay here” as a man in shackles and a grey sweatsuit is prominently featured. As the song’s chorus, “I know who I want to take me home,” is heard, the scene transitions to show a sign that reads “BORDER PATROL” as individuals board an airplane.

In response to the unauthorized use of their song, Semisonic took to social media to express their disapproval, stating, “We did not authorize or condone the White House’s use of our song ‘Closing Time’ in any way. And no, they didn’t ask. The song is about joy and possibilities and hope, and they have missed the point entirely.”

This incident adds Semisonic to a growing list of artists who have objected to their music being used for political purposes. Other musicians who have spoken out against the use of their songs by political figures include Celine Dion, Rihanna, Adele, Steven Tyler, Neil Young, the White Stripes, the Rolling Stones, and more.

“Closing Time” has been featured in various films and TV shows, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. In a 2018 interview with Billboard, Semisonic frontman Dan Wilson shared that the song was inspired by the birth of his daughter, Coco. Wilson revealed that the title “Closing Time” came to him as a fitting metaphor for the end of an era when his band spent years performing regularly. The song’s lyrics also hold a hidden meaning related to birth, which Wilson intentionally infused into the song.

Despite its widespread popularity and use in popular culture, “Closing Time” holds personal significance for Dan Wilson and carries a message of hope and possibility. Semisonic’s response to the unauthorized use of their song exemplifies their commitment to preserving the integrity and original meaning of their music.

By speaking out against the misuse of their music, Semisonic joins a chorus of artists who advocate for the respectful and thoughtful handling of their creative work in the public sphere. As musicians continue to grapple with the implications of their songs being co-opted for political messaging, the importance of artists’ autonomy and control over their work remains a crucial issue in the entertainment industry.