MGMT make peace with France

Tue 28th Apr, 2009 in International News

Splendour-bound superstars MGMT have emerged victorious from their dispute with French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Earlier this year the band was informed its inescapable ditty Kids was being used without permission by Sarkozy’s party, the Union For A Popular Movement.

Given the UMP was touting an anti-piracy agenda at the time, such hypocrisy would not stand. The party has now paid MGMT a settlement fee, which they plan to use for the greater good.

In a post on their website, the lads heralded the triumphant result.

“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”