Noah Kahan Rejects Trump Use of Song, Gains Obama Playlist Support

President Donald Trump’s White House social‑media accounts used folk singer Noah Kahan’s track “American Cars” to highlight a visit to a General Motors facility in Michigan. Kahan quickly responded that he would never approve his music being used to support the administration, writing, “Would never approve of my music being used in support of you or this administration.” His co‑writer, guitarist Noah Levine, also posted a scathing comment. Following the backlash, the song was removed from the Instagram post and later from TikTok.

A few days later, former President Barack Obama included Kahan’s song “Doors” on his 2026 summer playlist, noting the recent death of Irish singer‑songwriter Glen Hansard. Kahan thanked Obama, saying, “I can finally rest.” The incident adds Kahan’s name to a growing list of artists who have publicly objected to the Trump administration’s use of their music.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between artists and political figures over the unauthorized use of songs in campaign and promotional materials.