Published on April 5, 2026
Musicians have long expressed their discontent with the use of their songs at political events, and the recent Conservative Party conference has reignited this ongoing dispute. Prominent artists Florence Welch and Calvin Harris have publicly opposed the Tory party’s appropriation of their music, a sentiment echoed in the past, such as Keane and the Dandy Warhols.
The controversy unfolded when Florence Welch took to Twitter to voice her objection to the party’s use of her hit “You Got the Love.” She emphasized that the use of the song was “not approved would it have been had they asked.” Her message underscores a growing trend where artists feel their music is being misappropriated, especially when the context diverges sharply from the original intent.
Joining Welch in her criticism, Calvin Harris expressed his disapproval after his song “This Is What You Came For,” featuring Rihanna, was played as Theresa May walked on stage. He tweeted, “I do not support nor condone happy songs being played at such a sad event,” pointing to the stark contrast between the upbeat nature of the music and the tone of the political gathering. His comments also included a scathing critique of May’s overall demeanor, suggesting that she might need a lifestyle overhaul.
These reactions from Welch and Harris are particularly resonant given the musical landscape’s history with political events. Artists often view their work as a form of personal expression, not a tool for political messaging, and when that boundary is blurred, it can lead to significant backlash.
Moreover, the practice of using popular songs at political rallies can often reflect a misunderstanding of the songs’ meanings. For many musicians, the idea of their art being co-opted into a political narrative that they do not support is deeply unsettling.
As the Tory conference unfolded, it became clear that the discord between artists and politicians remains a point of contention. While Theresa May may not publicly appear troubled , the feedback from musicians like Welch and Harris serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between music and politics. Musicians increasingly advocate for their rights to ensure that their creative works are not misused in ways that they find objectionable.