MGMT settle with UMP over Kids use
A UMP spokesman initially responded by saying that the party's use of the song was covered by a licence from French collecting society SACEM, though added that they'd be double checking to see if the band were fairly compensated for the use of the song. Though for MGMT it wasn't so much a money thing, they just didn't want the French political types using their music.
Anyway, I'm not sure what went on behind the scenes, but it seems the UMP have decided to make a payment of some sort to the band for their use of 'Kids', which suggests the use of the track wasn't fully covered by their SACEM licence. The band have said they'll donate the payment to artist rights organisations.
In a posting on their website last week, the duo wrote: "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".
They continued: "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".
