Katy Perry Condemns White House for Using 'Firework' in Military TikTok

Katy Perry has publicly condemned the White House for using her hit song 'Firework' in a TikTok video featuring military strikes. She expressed her anger over the unauthorized use, stating it misrepresents the song's message of hope and healing. Perry emphasized that her music is meant to unite people, not to celebrate violence. This incident adds to a growing list of artists who have protested against the use of their music in political contexts, highlighting ongoing tensions between musicians and political figures. As Perry navigates her relationship with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the controversy surrounding her song continues to unfold.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 25, 2026, 23:19 IST

Katy Perry's Outrage Over Unauthorized Use of Her Song

Katy Perry has voiced her disapproval of the White House after her popular 2010 song 'Firework' was featured in an official TikTok video that included military strike footage. The artist expressed that she was neither notified nor granted permission for the song's use alongside images of bomb detonations, labeling the action as a gross misrepresentation of the song's intended message. Currently, Perry is in a relationship with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and there are speculations about their potential marriage.

Katy Perry's Stance Against the White House's Actions

Perry has publicly criticized the Trump administration following the use of her hit track 'Firework' in a TikTok video that showcased military actions. The video, shared on the White House's official TikTok account, combined visuals of bomb blasts with the lyrics 'boom, boom, boom' from her 2010 hit. The accompanying caption read, 'Iran has been warned.'

On Saturday, Perry took to X to express her frustration regarding the unauthorized use of her song. She stated, 'I am deeply appalled and angry to see 'Firework' used on the @WhiteHouse TikTok account as a backing track for video footage of military strikes.' She emphasized that she did not approve of this usage and does not condone it.

Furthermore, Perry clarified that the song was created with a different intention. 'I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength for people going through their darkest personal moments,' she explained. 'To see a message of self-worth and upliftment weaponized to soundtrack destruction and violence is a complete violation of everything my song stands for. My music is for bringing people together, not celebrating warfare.'

Released in 2010 as part of her album 'Teenage Dream', 'Firework' has become one of Perry's defining tracks and a major pop anthem of the decade. The song promotes embracing individuality, overcoming self-doubt, and recognizing inner strength. It has topped charts globally, received numerous award nominations, and is frequently played at celebrations, graduations, and charitable events due to its inspiring message.

Artists' Reactions to Political Use of Their Music

This incident is not the first time artists have protested against the use of their music by the Trump administration or its political campaigns. In June, Ariana Grande criticized the White House after a version of her song 'Bye' was used in a TikTok video depicting ICE agents making arrests. Grande also mentioned that she had not authorized the use of her music.

Many other prominent musicians have previously objected to their songs being used at Trump campaign rallies or in political contexts. Artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, Celine Dion, and The Rolling Stones have all publicly denounced the unauthorized use of their music, asserting that their songs were being linked to messages or causes they do not endorse.