Katy Perry Criticizes White House for Using Her Song 'Firework'

Katy Perry has voiced strong disapproval of the White House's use of her hit song "Firework" in a TikTok video that accompanied footage of military strikes. The pop star took to platform X to express her dismay and anger, stating she had not given her consent and absolutely did not endorse the song's use in such a context.

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I am horrified and angry that "Firework" was used as background music for footage of military strikes.

Perry emphasized that her music is intended to unite people, not to glorify war. She explained that "Firework" was written as an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength for individuals facing personal struggles. She criticized the instrumentalization of a message of self-worth and encouragement to musically underscore destruction and violence, which she feels is entirely contrary to the song's original intent.

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I did not consent, I was not asked, and I absolutely do not approve.

The White House had captioned the video with "Iran has been warned." This is not the first time the U.S. administration has faced backlash for using music in its social media content. In December, a video depicting the arrest of migrants was set to a song by Sabrina Carpenter, who also expressed her displeasure, calling the clip "malicious and disgusting."

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My music is meant to bring people together – not to glorify war.