The Daily Buzz
MGMT Wins Settlement From French President Sarkozy's UMP Party
Donates money to artists' rights groups.
MGMT alleged that UMP used the song in political rallies without properly compensating the band. UMP, which has an anti-music piracy platform, eventually agreed to compensate MGMT for its use of the track.
MGMT issued this statement:
"About two months ago, it was brought to our attention (through the MGMT message board) that the UMP French political party was using our song 'Kids' at rallies and posting videos of these rallies on their official website. Normally MGMT steers clear of mixing music and politics, but the fact that the UMP used our song without permission while simultaneously pushing anti-piracy legislation seemed a little wack.
"We believe that access to music benefits both the musicians and the fans, and has undoubtedly helped spread our music around the globe, while also expanding our personal musical collections.
"We didn't want to be 'typical Americans' and sue, despite the amazing monetary benefit and chinchilla coats and Navigators it would bring. Instead we're using the settlement fee the UMP presented and donating it to artists' rights organizations.
"Thank you France for the wonderful food. C'est bon."
MGMT will play Minglewood in Memphis on June 11th.
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