It's been a contentious issue over the years, the use of rock songs by more conservative-leaning politicians during their campaigns, and the latest clash sees iconic (and now-defunct) Athens band REM issuing a seething telling-off to Donald Trump for using their 1987 hit 'It's The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)' at a rally in Washington DC on Wednesday. The billionaire and US presidential nominee appeared alongside fellow nominee Ted Cruz, as well as Sarah Palin and Glenn Beck, at an event that focused on attacking US President Barack Obama for his dealings with Iran.
Bassist Mike Mills was the first to comment, saying on Twitter:

Personally, I think the Orange Clown will do anything for attention. I hate giving it to him.

— Mike Mills (@m_millsey) September 9, 2015

Nevertheless, an official band statement was later issued:

@m_millsey pic.twitter.com/pgP3X9PZ6V

— Hakim (@hakimbriki) September 9, 2015

Mills then posted an angry response from singer Michael Stipe, stressing that they were Stipe's views alone: "Go fuck yourselves, the lot of you--you sad, attention grabbing, power-hungry little men. Do not use our music or my voice for your moronic charade of a campaign."