Heart’s Nancy Wilson is speaking out after an instrumental version of the band’s hit “Barracuda” was played during a military parade celebrating Donald Trump’s 79th birthday and the US Army’s 250th anniversary. Along with Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” the track was part of the soundtrack to the event.
Wilson wasn’t pleased. In an Instagram post, she made her position crystal clear: “Barracuda” is a “powerful piece of music that was never intended for political use.” She added that the song’s inclusion clashed with the spirit of the event, which was meant to honor military service.
“Respect the Troops – And the Artists”
Nancy and her sister Ann are daughters of a US Marine Corps major, and she made sure to note their deep appreciation for the armed forces. “As daughters of a US Marine Corps major, we hold a deep and abiding respect for the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces,” Wilson wrote. “On a day meant to honour 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.”
Her post also featured a photo of her wearing a “NO KINGS BUT US” hat, referencing the No Kings protests that took place the same weekend, drawing millions nationwide.
More Artists Push Back
Wilson has long been critical of Trump’s brand of politics. In a past interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, she said “Barracuda” is “even more relevant in the salacious billionaire culture with the grab-them-by-the-(expletive) mentality.”
Trump has faced backlash from other musicians too. Johnny Marr recently blasted the use of The Smiths’ songs at Trump rallies, saying, “Consider this shit shut down right now.”
Meanwhile, Wilson also shared some good news—police arrested a man following the theft of two unique Heart guitars, including her custom baritone Telecaster.
