Katy Perry slams White House for using 'Firework' in Iran war video

Katy Perry has publicly condemned the White House for using her hit song "Firework" in a TikTok video showcasing U.S. military actions in Iran. The singer expressed deep dismay and indignation on social media, stating she had not authorized or been consulted about the use of her music.

“

I am deeply dismayed and disgusted to see that 'Firework' was used on the @WhiteHouse TikTok account as background music for a video of military attacks.

Perry emphasized that "Firework" was written to be an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength, particularly for those facing dark times. She argued that using the song as a backdrop for military destruction and violence is a "complete violation" of its message. "My music is meant to unite people, not celebrate war," Perry declared.

The video, posted on the White House's TikTok account, featured eight-second clips of U.S. airstrikes in Iran accompanied by a lyric from Perry's 2010 single. The caption read, "Iran received warnings," with a fireworks emoji. The music remained in the video over the weekend.

“

I did not authorize this, I was not consulted, and I do not approve of this usage.

Perry's complaint echoes similar grievances from other artists, including ABBA, Beyoncé, and Sabrina Carpenter, who have criticized political figures and campaigns for using their songs without consent. Carpenter, for instance, called the unauthorized use of her song for a video about immigration raids "evil and disgusting."

“

This is an absolute violation of everything that my song represents. My music is meant to unite people, not celebrate war.