Rock legend Nancy Wilson of Heart has voiced strong disapproval over President Donald Trump’s unauthorized use of the band’s iconic 1977 track Barracuda during a grand military parade held over the weekend in Washington, D.C.
Taking to Instagram on Sunday, Wilson, 71, addressed the situation with a direct message to her 195,000+ followers:
“Earlier today, during a parade held in support of our nation’s military and organized by President Donald Trump, the song ‘Barracuda’ by Heart was played without permission or authorization from us.”
She emphasized that the track—written and performed by Wilson and her sister Ann—was never intended for political purposes.
“‘Barracuda’ is a powerful piece of music that was never meant to be used as a political soundtrack.”
Wilson added a personal note, explaining that their family’s military background—being daughters of a U.S. Marine Corps major—instills in them a deep respect for service members.
“On a day meant to honor that service, it’s important that music used in such settings reflects not only the tone of the event but also the wishes of the artists who created it.”
The controversy comes in the aftermath of Trump’s elaborate parade, held in honor of his 79th birthday. The display marched down Constitution Avenue and featured over 6,000 troops, 128 Army tanks, and a 21-gun salute—drawing both praise and criticism.
Some interpreted the event as a political spectacle rather than a tribute to military service. In response, demonstrations under the banner “No Kings” erupted across the country, opposing what many perceived as authoritarian undertones in the display.
Trump, who reportedly drew inspiration from France’s Bastille Day celebrations after attending one in 2017, dismissed criticisms.
“Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did too,” he said at the parade’s conclusion.
Wilson’s statement sparked fierce debate online. Critics argued that the use of the song was inconsequential in the context of honoring the military. Some accused the musician of political bias, referencing the cap she wore in the photo that read “No Kings but Us.”
“Imagine calling a democratically elected president a king. What a clown,” one commenter wrote.
Another added, “There have been no kings since July 4th, 1776.”
Others expressed support for Wilson’s stance.
“Damn right, Nancy!” one fan wrote.
Another commented, “These people loving your music but hating your voice are the same ones who ‘love the fetus but hate the child.’”
A particularly insightful comment pointed to the deeper meaning behind Barracuda:
“Clearly, these people have no idea what ‘Barracuda’ is actually about and why it was written in the first place.”
Trump has long faced backlash from artists over unauthorized use of their music at political events. Over the years, acts like The Rolling Stones, Queen, Pharrell Williams, Rihanna, and the estate of Tom Petty have publicly objected to the use of their songs during Trump rallies.
Nancy and Ann Wilson formed Heart in 1973, quickly gaining acclaim with hits like Magic Man, Crazy on You, and Barracuda. The band went on to sell over 35 million albums and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Their catalog includes chart-toppers such as What About Love?, Who Will You Run To, Stranded, and All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You.
While Wilson’s message may have divided followers, her stance reinforces a growing chorus of musicians asserting their right to control how—and where—their art is used.
