White House removes Ariana Grande track after singer condemns ICE video

The singer’s team moved quickly after the controversial video, leading to the audio being removed

Ariana Grande publicly criticised the White House after its official TikTok account used her song “Bye” in a video promoting Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations.

The video featured footage of migrants being detained by ICE agents and carried the caption “Bye-bye” alongside claims that President Donald Trump had delivered the most secure border in history. The soundtrack used Grande’s 2024 song “Bye” from her album Eternal Sunshine.

Grande reacted strongly in the comments section of the post. According to screenshots shared by multiple outlets, the singer wrote, “Please do not ever use my music in relation to this barbaric, inhumane, heinous nonsense.” She also expressed opposition to ICE in the same message.

Within hours, the audio was removed from the TikTok clip. Users attempting to play the video were met with a message stating that the sound was unavailable.

Grande’s team reportedly worked to have the music removed after the post gained widespread attention online. The exchange quickly sparked discussion across social media, with supporters praising the singer for speaking out and others debating the political nature of celebrity activism.

The White House also responded to Grande’s criticism. Spokesperson Abigail Jackson defended the administration’s immigration policies and referenced Grande’s 2014 hit “One Last Time” while addressing the controversy.

The dispute marked another instance of artists objecting to political figures or campaigns using their music without approval. Musicians across different genres have previously requested that politicians and government organisations stop using their songs at rallies, advertisements or social media campaigns.

Grande has been vocal about immigration issues in recent years. During the 2026 Golden Globes, the Wicked: For Good star wore an “ICE OUT” pin on the red carpet. She has also shared messages on social media criticising policies implemented during Trump’s second presidency.

The Grammy winner has remained active both politically and professionally. Following the success of Wicked, she is set to return in Wicked: For Good, scheduled for release later this year.

The White House video remained online after the controversy, although Grande’s song was no longer attached to it.