Rolling Stones Dispute Claim of Approval for Song Employ in Melania Trump Documentary

Sources close to Mick Jagger have cast doubt on claims made by the producer of the documentary Melania, asserting that the Rolling Stones were not directly involved in approving the use of their song “Gimme Shelter” in the film’s soundtrack.

Producer’s Claims Contested

Marc Beckman, a producer for the film and a long-time advisor to Donald and Melania Trump, told Variety that Mick Jagger “was actually involved” and “gave us his blessing” for the use of the song. Beckman described a collaborative process, stating the band was receptive because “it’s not politics – it’s just some story about some woman that is going from being a civilian back into the White House.”

Band Disputes Involvement

Though, a spokesperson for the Rolling Stones told The Guardian that the agreement to use “Gimme Shelter” was made solely between ABKCO, the rights holders for the song and the film’s producers. A source close to Mick Jagger also expressed skepticism regarding Beckman’s account, suggesting it was motivated by a desire to promote the film. The Guardian reports that the source believes skepticism is necessary given Beckman’s promotional efforts.

Broader Opposition to Trump’s Use of Music

The Rolling Stones are among a growing list of artists who have objected to their music being used at Donald Trump’s political rallies or in projects associated with him. Other artists who have voiced opposition include Guns N’ Roses, Grace Jones, the estate of Prince, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Adele, Queen, R.E.M., Elton John, ABBA, Jack White, Céline Dion, the Foo Fighters, and the estates of Isaac Hayes and Tom Petty. The Daily Beast highlights this pattern of artists distancing themselves from Trump’s political endeavors.

Controversy Surrounds Documentary’s Soundtrack

The controversy extends beyond the Rolling Stones. Director Paul Thomas Anderson and Radiohead musician Jonny Greenwood also objected to the use of orchestral music from Anderson’s 2017 film Phantom Thread in Melania, though the licensing of the music was reportedly handled correctly through Focus Gramercy Film Music, owned by Universal. Yahoo News details this additional dispute.

Film’s Reception and Cost

Melania, which follows the former First Lady in the lead-up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration, has been widely criticized by reviewers. Amazon MGM Studios reportedly invested approximately $75 million in the film’s production and marketing. Critics have described the film as “self-serving” and lacking in substantive storytelling. Mercury News provides further context on the film’s reception.