Katy Perry angry after Trump uses ‘Firework’ in Iran strike video without permission

Singer-songwriter Katy Perry has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump after her hit song ‘Firework’ was used in a White House TikTok video featuring footage of US military strikes on Iran.

The video, which began circulating on TikTok earlier this week, combined scenes of military action with Perry’s 2010 chart-topping anthem. After learning about the clip, the singer made it clear that she had never given permission for her music to be used in that way.

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Sharing her reaction on X, formerly known as Twitter, Perry said she was “deeply appalled and angry” over the video.

‘Firework’ was written to inspire, not promote violence

In her statement, Perry explained that the song was created to encourage people during difficult times and to remind them of their inner strength.

“I am deeply appalled and angry to see ‘Firework’ used on the White House TikTok as a backing track for video footage of military strikes. I did not approve this, I was not asked, and I absolutely do not condone it,” she wrote.

The singer added that seeing a song about hope and self-confidence paired with scenes of violence completely went against its original purpose.

She said ‘Firework’ was written as “an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength” for people facing their darkest moments. According to Perry, using that message alongside images of destruction was “a complete violation” of everything the song represents.

Song has special meaning in Perry’s career

‘Firework’ has long been one of Perry’s most meaningful songs. In January 2021, she performed the hit outside the Lincoln Memorial during the televised celebration of Joe Biden’s presidential inauguration, highlighting its message of unity, hope, and resilience.

Other artists have also criticised Trump

Katy Perry is not the only artist to object to the Trump administration’s use of popular music on social media.

Last month, pop star Ariana Grande also spoke out after her song ‘Bye’ was used in a TikTok video promoting US immigration arrests. The clip showed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers detaining and handcuffing people, along with the caption, “Bye-bye. President Trump has delivered the most secure border in history.”

Grande responded in a comment that was later deleted, writing, “Please do not ever use my music in relation to this barbaric, inhumane, heinous nonsense. F— ICE.”