A problematic association for Apple
In her message, Pomme explains that she did not agree, specifying that this decision is based on “obvious reasons”: she strongly disagrees with Kanye West’s political positions. The latter has in fact multiplied controversies since 2022notably through anti-Semitic statements and his displayed support for Donald Trump. These controversies led to the breakdown of several major partnerships for the rapper, notably with Adidas and Balenciaga.
For Apple, this implicit association could harm its image and contradict the values it defends. “It’s sometimes difficult to give up on certain opportunities, but I prefer to respect my deep values”she concluded on her post.
A copyright matter
From a legal point of view, using a sample without permission constitutes copyright infringement. In France, article L122-4 of the intellectual property code prohibits any reproduction or adaptation of a work without the consent of the author or his beneficiaries. To use this sample, Kanye West would have to obtain the prior agreement of Pomme as well as that of his publisher or producer.
-The author’s moral rights, also protected by French law, allow Pomme to refuse this use if it considers that it harms his work or his image. But be careful, the differences between French and American legislation could complicate possible legal action.especially since the progress of the project is still quite vague.
Precedents in the music industry
This type of conflict around sampling is not new. Many artists objected to the use of their works in contexts they considered inconsistent with their beliefs or reputation. It remains to be seen whether Kanye West will decide to remove this sample or seek authorization anyway, but it seems off to a bad start..
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