Katy Perry’s coastal ‘Lifetimes’ music video sparks investigation by Spanish officials
Katy Perry and her crew might have been dune too much in the Balearic Islands for her recently released “Lifetimes” music video. At least, that’s what local officials seem to think.
The Balearic Islands’ Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment announced Tuesday that it had launched an investigation into the Grammy-nominated singer’s video, alleging that it was filmed in a local natural park without official authorization. The statement alleges that the production company behind Perry’s video did not seek proper authorization to film at the Ses Salines Natural Park just southeast of Ibiza.
In the video released Aug. 8, Perry can be seen soaking up the sun, dancing and running in the sand. The BBC reported that the video also includes shots of the S’Espalmador dune system, which is “one of the most ecologically rich areas of the Balearic Islands’ Formentera.”
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The ministry said Tuesday that the alleged unauthorized use of the natural park was not a crime against the environment, but that any filming in the park for publicity or commercial use requires authorization.
“The local video production company assured us that all necessary permits for the video were secured. We have since learned that one permit was in process, although we were given verbal authority to go ahead,” a representative for Perry said in a statement shared with The Times on Wednesday.
“Our local crew on July 22 applied for a permit for this specific location with the Directorate-General For Coasts And Coastline,” the statement read. “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.”
WeOwnTheCity, the production company behind Perry’s “Lifetimes” video, did not immediately respond to The Times’ request for comment.
“Lifetimes” is the second single from Perry’s upcoming “143” album, set to be released in September. Before the “Lifetimes” scrutiny, Perry faced a two-fold backlash for her supposed feminist hit “Woman’s World.” Online critics blasted Perry for collaborating with producer Dr. Luke, whom singer Kesha accused of sexual assault in 2014, to write a song about women‘s empowerment. The song was also co-written by Chloe Angelides, Vaughn Oliver, Aaron Joseph and Rocco Valdes, according to Spotify.
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On top of the Dr. Luke backlash, “Woman’s World” faced criticism for its music video, which some internet users alleged catered to the male gaze, undermining its feminist mission. After the backlash, Perry defended her song in a behind-the-scenes video in which she said: “We’re just having fun being a bit sarcastic with it.”
With the Balearic Islands government investigating “Lifetimes,” Perry’s fun might be on hold for now. Ain’t that a beach.
Times staff writer Malia Mendez contributed to this report.
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