American pop star Katy Perry has criticized the White House for using her hit song Firework in a video featuring footage of U.S. military strikes, saying the use was unauthorized and fundamentally contradicted the message behind the song.
According to Iraf, Perry expressed her objection in a statement posted on X, saying she was “deeply horrified and angered” to see Firework used as the soundtrack to scenes of military attacks.
“I did not authorize this use, no one sought my permission, and I absolutely do not endorse it,” she wrote.
The singer said the song was written to inspire people, offer hope, and encourage them to find strength during difficult times—not to accompany images of war, explosions, or military operations.
The White House video drew widespread attention across social media, where many users criticized the decision to pair an uplifting pop anthem with footage of armed conflict, describing the juxtaposition as inappropriate and controversial.
Perry’s response has renewed debate over the use of artists’ work in political messaging without their consent, an issue that has repeatedly surfaced in the United States as musicians challenge the use of their music in government and political communications.
