The feature film Joker starring Joaquin Phoenix has stirred up a whirlwind of controversy since its release, particularly regarding its soundtrack. One of the most debated aspects is the inclusion of the 1972 rock classic "Rock and Roll Part 2," a song that has become synonymous with sports events yet is tied to a deeply troubling figure: Gary Glitter. Currently serving time in England for serious crimes, Glitter's association with the film has sparked outrage among audiences who are troubled by the idea that their ticket purchases might indirectly benefit him. The song's presence in a major cinematic release has brought forth questions about the ethics of music licensing, especially when it involves artists with criminal backgrounds.
Many viewers of Joker express their discomfort knowing that a portion of their ticket price could contribute to Glitter's earnings, whose real name is Paul Gadd. This situation is particularly alarming given Glitter's past and the fact that the song has already generated considerable revenue over the years, including around $250,000 annually from its use at NHL games, as reported by Billboard in 2014. The song, once a staple at sporting events, has faded from prominence in recent years, making its re-emergence in the film even more surprising and controversial.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Glitter's financial gain from Joker, it has been reported that he may receive a share of the film's box office profits and future revenues from streaming and soundtrack sales. However, the Los Angeles Times has revealed that Glitter's music catalog was acquired by a record label, Snapper Music, in 1997, raising questions about whether he will actually see any of the proceeds. An anonymous spokesperson for the label confirmed, "Gary Glitter does not get paid… We've had no contact with him." This situation highlights the complexities of music rights and the implications of using songs from artists with controversial pasts in popular media.
