The British band The Rolling Stones issued a firm statement denying reports that they had granted permission for their song "Gimme Shelter" to be used in an upcoming documentary about Melania Trump. Previously, the film's producer, Thomas Martin, claimed that Mick Jagger "gave his blessing" for the song's use. The band emphasized that they were not asked for permission and did not grant it, raising questions about the legality of the song's use. The film production company MSMCP maintains its earlier position, creating a conflict between the parties.

Conflicting Statements from the Parties

The producer of the film "Melania", Thomas Martin, assured that Mick Jagger "gave his blessing" for the use of the Stones' song. Meanwhile, the band's official spokesperson strongly denied this, stating that the band was not asked for permission and did not grant it.

Denial from The Rolling Stones

The manager of interests and spokesperson for The Rolling Stones issued a statement to "Variety", clearly denying reports of granting permission. "The band was not asked for permission and did not grant it for the use of this song in the documentary about Melania Trump" – was communicated.

Position of the Film Production Company

The company MSMCP, producing the film, in communication with "The Guardian" upheld producer Thomas Martin's version, claiming Jagger expressed approval. The conflict of statements indicates a serious dispute that could have legal consequences.

Film Premiere at the Festival

The documentary "Melania", directed by Hans Otto, has its premiere in the Panorama section at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). The dispute over music rights erupted just days before this event.

Just days before the premiere of the documentary "Melania" at the Berlinale festival, a dispute has erupted between the producers and the British band The Rolling Stones over the rights to use the iconic song "Gimme Shelter". The film's producer, Thomas Martin, in talks with media, including "Variety", claimed he received verbal approval from the band's leader, Mick Jagger. "Mick gave his blessing" – Martin reportedly said, suggesting the matter was settled. However, a spokesperson for The Rolling Stones issued a starkly different statement. "The band was not asked for permission and did not grant it for the use of this song in the documentary about Melania Trump" – reads a statement given to Reuters and published by "Variety". The spokesperson added that the band is considering all available legal measures in this matter. MSMCP, the company behind the film, in communication with "The Guardian", upheld the producer's earlier position. The song "Gimme Shelter" from the 1969 album "Let It Bleed" is one of the most recognizable rock anthems, often used in films and TV series, which each time requires obtaining a license from the copyright holders. The dispute reveals a typical tension in the film industry between documentary makers and music rights holders. The film "Melania", directed by Hans Otto, is set to compete in the Panorama section at the Berlinale. The film's focus on the former First Lady of the United States is itself a controversial topic. Adding a copyright dispute over an iconic song only increases the media buzz around the production. Regardless of the outcome, its timing – just before the festival premiere – suggests it may be part of a marketing strategy or an attempt to pressure the band. The lack of written consent from the band raises serious questions about the legality of the song's use and potential legal claims that could delay or even block the film's distribution.

Mentioned People

  • Mick Jagger — Leader and vocalist of the band The Rolling Stones.
  • Thomas Martin — Producer of the documentary "Melania".
  • Melania Trump — Former First Lady of the United States, subject of the documentary.
  • Hans Otto — Director of the documentary "Melania".