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Jackson Browne settles with John McCain, Republicans
Singer/songwriter Jackson Browne says he's settled a lawsuit he filed against the Ohio Republican Party, the Republican National Committee, and former presidential candidate John McCain. Browne alleged that his song "Running On Empty" was used without permission in a web campaign video produced by the Ohio party in support of Sen. McCain's presidential bid.
The suit alleged that the song's usage required a license, which was not obtained, and claimed the defendants were liable for copyright infringement, false endorsement under the United States Lanham Act and violation of Mr. Browne's right of publicity for the use of his voice.
The financial terms of the settlement were not disclosed, but the defendants did issue the following statement: "We apologize that a portion of the Jackson Browne song 'Running On Empty' was used without permission. Although Senator McCain had no knowledge of, or involvement in, the creation or distribution of the web campaign video, Senator McCain does not support or condone any actions taken by anyone involved in his 2008 presidential election campaign that were inconsistent with artists' rights or the various legal protections afforded to intellectual property. The ORP, RNC and Senator McCain pledge in future election campaigns to respect and uphold the rights of artists and to obtain permissions and/or licenses for copyrighted works where appropriate."