Katy Perry responds to investigation into “unauthorised” ‘Lifetimes’ video
Katy Perry’s label has responded to reports that the pop star is under investigation over potential environmental damage caused during the “unauthorised” ‘Lifetimes’ video shoot.
The sun-kissed visuals for Perry’s latest single were released last week, and find her at the beach before heading to an Ibiza club. Elsewhere in the clip, the singer revealed the tracklist for her upcoming new album ’143’ on a billboard.
It was subsequently alleged that the video – directed by frequent Bad Bunny collaborator Stillz – contained unauthorised filming on Spain’s Balearic Islands, and an investigation was launched.
In a statement, the Balearic Islands’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment said that the production company behind the ‘Lifetimes’ visuals had failed to seek “authorisation from the Regional Ministry to carry out the filming”.
“That is why preliminary investigation actions have been initiated,” it continued.
Despite this, the statement went on to say that Perry’s actions were not a “crime against the environment” and instead an infringement – stating that general photography and filming “can be authorised” in the location.
A spokesperson from Perry’s label, Capitol Records, has now responded in a statement obtained by The Independent. “The local video production company assured us that all necessary permits for the video were secure,” they said.
“We have since learned that one permit was in process, although we were given verbal authority to go ahead. Our local crew on July 22 applied for a permit for this specific location with the Directorate-General For Coasts And Coastline.”
They continued: “Our crew received verbal approval on July 26 to proceed with the filming on July 27. We adhered to all regulations associated with filming in this area and have the utmost respect for this location and the officials tasked with protecting it.”
‘Lifetimes’ – which was inspired by Perry’s daughter, Daisy – is currently at Number 56 on the UK singles chart’s latest update.
The singer’s ’143’ album rollout has been far from smooth sailing. Last month, the music video for its lead single ‘Woman’s World’ was widely criticised for catering to the male gaze rather than challenging it, as seems to be the intention of the female empowerment-themed lyrics.
But Perry later hit back at the accusations, saying that the video was intended to be satire. The song in question peaked at Number 47 in the UK, and Number 63 in the US.
Additionally, she received backlash when it was revealed she had once again worked with Dr Luke on her forthcoming album. Kesha accused the producer of emotional abuse and sexual assault in a decade-long lawsuit.
Kesha tweeted “lol” after Perry’s latest collaboration was released, with fans believing the post to be in response to the track. Earlier this month, Kesha seemingly dissed Perry during her set at Lollapalooza 2024.
Perry is set to release the “bold and exuberant” ‘143’ on September 20 – you can pre-order it here. Speaking about the record earlier this summer, she explained: “It’s a dance party and everyone’s invited.”
The tracklist for Katy Perry’s ‘143’ is:
1. ‘Woman’s World’
2. ‘Gimme Gimme’ feat. 21 Savage
3. ‘Gorgeous’ feat. Kim Petras
4. ‘I’m His, He’s Mine’ feat. Doechii
5. ‘Crush’
6. ‘Lifetimes’
7. ‘All the Love’
8. ‘Nirvana’
9. ‘Artificial’ feat. J.I.D.
10 . ‘Truth’
11. ‘Wonder’
Perry’s latest studio album, ‘Smile’, came out in 2020. NME reviewed the LP at the time, giving it two stars: “It’s frustrating, as this is the woman behind some of the most fun – and biggest-selling – songs of all time.
“But as much as you want ‘Smile’ to be a return to form, her fifth album’s songs fail to grip. All in all, ‘Smile’ lacks the fireworks of Perry’s record-breaking years.”
In other news, Perry has praised Charli XCX for her huge ‘Brat’ era. “I think she is in her prime right now,” she said.
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Tom Skinner
NME
