Petty Song Lands “American Girl” in Hot Water

Months ahead of the 2012 primary elections, wars of words are heating up between political rivals, some of whom aren’t even running for office. Right now, Michele Bachmann landed herself in some legal hot water when she chose to use Tom Petty’s song “American Girl,” without the artist’s permission. This isn’t the first time artists have taken offense with the political appropriation of their work.  
   For some history of politics clashing with popular music we speak with Kelefa Sanneh, staff writer for The New Yorker.