[OCCASparky]

Actually, no it doesn't become public domain after 25 years.

However, THEY don't "own" the song because THEY didn't write it. The drummer (Michael DeRosier) wrote it, and was recently quoted as saying he loved the fact it was being used.

Oh, and Ann? Nancy? Before you start bitching about "stolen" stuff, remember Nazareth? Remember "This Flight Tonight"? You know--that's the group/song you stole the "Barracuda" opening riff from?

Whoops--on edit, Roger Fisher was the one interviewed. So what if they're Obama supporters? Now be good girls and have another sandwich or something.

[justlurking]

However, THEY don't "own" the song because THEY didn't write it. The drummer (Michael DeRosier) wrote it, and was recently quoted as saying he loved the fact it was being used.

It was apparently a collaborative effort, between the Wilson sisters, Michael DeRosier, and Roger Fisher:

Rock group Heart says "Barracuda" use is fishy

Fisher is the one that has been quoted as thrilled, as they get royalties and publicity. I've read that downloads of "Barracuda" has shot it to the top of online music charts. I bought my copy from iTunes long ago. :-)

He has also written that he plans to donate a portion of the royalties to Barack Obama's campaign.

As others have noted, this is out of the artist's control, anyway. From the article:

Copyright law may not be on the Wilsons' side as the song is licensed for public performance under a blanket fee paid by the venue to ASCAP, the firm that collects royalties on behalf of composers and copyright owners.

If the fees are paid, McCain's campaign can legally continue to use the song. If they stop doing so, it's only out of respect for the artist's wishes.