The producers behind the controversial Melania Trump documentary have found themselves embroiled in a significant dispute with one of rock music's most legendary bands. In a statement released on Thursday, 26 February 2026, a representative for The Rolling Stones firmly denied claims made by producer Mark Beckman regarding the use of their iconic track 'Gimme Shelter' in the Amazon MGM Studios film.
Disputed Claims Over Song Approval
Producer Mark Beckman had publicly asserted that Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger personally gave his blessing for the documentary to feature the band's 1969 classic. However, The Rolling Stones' camp has categorically refuted this narrative. Their representative clarified that the music licensing agreement was negotiated directly with the rights holders, ABKCO, without any direct involvement or approval from the band members themselves.
Wider Music Licensing Controversies
This dispute forms part of a broader pattern of contentious music usage within the documentary. The film, which chronicles the life of former First Lady Melania Trump, has also faced criticism for incorporating Jonny Greenwood's score from the acclaimed film Phantom Thread without securing consent from either Greenwood or the film's director, Paul Thomas Anderson.
Further complicating the production's soundtrack, Beckman revealed that the rock band Guns N' Roses ultimately blocked the use of one of their songs. This decision was reportedly due to an internal disagreement among the band's members, highlighting the sensitive nature of music placement in politically adjacent projects.
Notable Refusals and Estate Decisions
In a particularly telling refusal, the estate of the late music icon Prince declined permission for the use of one of his songs. Sources close to the estate indicated that Prince would not have wished for his music to be associated with former President Donald Trump, underscoring the political dimensions influencing artistic licensing decisions.
The documentary's journey through the music clearance process illustrates the complex interplay between art, politics, and intellectual property rights in modern filmmaking.
