Rolling Stones reject Melania film’s use of 'Gimme Shelter', say band never authorised track

The The Rolling Stones are pushing back after their iconic track “Gimme Shelter” was used in the newly released documentary Melania, a film centered on Melania Trump, without their authorisation.

The controversy surrounds the documentary’s opening sequence, which reportedly features a long, slow approach shot of Mar-a-Lago set to the band’s 1969 classic. According to representatives for the band, the use of the track was never approved, with a spokesperson stating the song was included “without permission or authorisation.”

The film at the center of the dispute is the 2026 documentary Melania, a project focusing on the life and public image of Melania Trump. The documentary has already premiered and drawn attention for its stylistic choices, including its use of “Gimme Shelter” in the opening sequence.

The track itself is one of the band’s most recognizable songs, originally released on their 1969 album Let It Bleed, and long associated with themes of chaos, fear, and political unrest, making its placement in the documentary’s opening especially striking.

A spokesperson for the band reiterated their position, saying the use of the song was “not authorised,” adding that they do not support the use of their music in connection with political figures or messaging.

While the documentary has already been released, it remains unclear whether the filmmakers will make any changes to future distributions or streaming versions following the band’s objection.

The dispute underscores the ongoing tension between artists and filmmakers over music rights and political associations, particularly when globally recognized songs like “Gimme Shelter” are involved.