Donald Trump’s Spotify playlist, echoing through the halls of Mar-a-Lago and the raucous gatherings of his campaign rallies, might just be the “Rosetta Stone” needed to decode the enigmatic personality of the former U.S. President. This playlist, affectionately dubbed “Deejay T” by regulars at his Palm Beach retreat, showcases not just Trump’s musical preferences but serves as a metaphor for his political and personal ethos.
Central to Trump’s musical lineup are the big names, the iconic singers, and bands that resonate with widespread recognition. His selection spans from the “Phantom of the Opera” and “Jesus Christ Superstar,” to the rock anthems of Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain,” to the soulful duets of James Brown and Luciano Pavarotti. It’s a collection where brand recognition—akin to his own branding endeavors—plays a pivotal role. Artists like Elvis Presley, Lionel Richie, and the timeless Elton John are a testament to Trump’s affinity for names that command attention and evoke a sense of familiarity and grandeur.
However, Trump’s unwavering commitment to these golden oldies and his predilection for controlling the volume to his liking–loud enough to drown out guests’ conversations– at both Mar-a-Lago and campaign events reveal more than just a musical preference. They symbolize his desire for control, a reluctance to deviate from the familiar, and a tendency to repeat the same motifs, much like his political rhetoric. Some would call them his grievances and obsessions.
Interestingly, Trump’s musical selections have not always been met with approval from the artists themselves. A handful of musicians have vocally disapproved of their work being associated with his political endeavors. High-profile artists, including the likes of the Rolling Stones and R.E.M., have gone so far as to issue cease-and-desist orders against Trump for using their music without permission at his campaign rallies. This pushback highlights a dissonance between the artist’s intentions and the political messaging they inadvertently become part of for Trump’s base.
In essence, Donald Trump’s playlist is more than a mere collection of hits; it’s a reflection of his persona—brash, unchanging, and always seeking the spotlight. Whether at the lavish settings of Mar-a-Lago or the charged atmosphere of a campaign rally, the music plays on, a testament to Trump’s unwavering confidence in his brand, despite the controversies it may stir–or perhaps because of them– and the lines it continues to cross. As much as it reveals about the man, it also mirrors the era of politics he embodies—an era where name recognition and the power of media are paramount.
