Bad news for Pharrell and Robin Thicke.
A California federal jury decision to award Marvin Gaye’s estate $7.4 million for copyright infringement on his and Robin Thicke’s hit “Blurred Lines.”
After more than a week in court defending their song’s “feeling” against claims it ripped off Gaye’s 1977 track “Got to Give It Up,” Williams’ camp now says the court’s decision against him and Thicke will be bad for art moving forward.
“While we respect the judicial process, we are extremely disappointed in the ruling made today, which sets a horrible precedent for music and creativity going forward,” a rep for Williams told Billboard in a statement. “Pharrell created ‘Blurred Lines’ from his heart, mind and soul and the song was not taken from anyone or anywhere else. We are reviewing the decision, considering our options and you will hear more from us soon about this matter.”
During the trial, Williams testified about his song-creation process, saying “Blurred Lines” channels “that ’70s feeling” and that he looked up to Gaye. But, he said, that shouldn’t be considered copyright infringement.
“The last thing you want to do as a creator is take something of someone else’s when you love him,” he said.
No word yet from Robin…Given all his personal issues I’m not too surprised.
My two-cents: Keep your head up Pharrell. No one questions your abilities. And this too shall pass. Still the truth.
Leave a Reply