A Los Angeles jury ordered Pharrell Williams & Robin Thicke to pay $7.3 million dollars to Marvin Gaye’s children, finding “Blurred Lines” violated Marvin Gaye’s copyright in the smash hit “Got to Give it up”. “What I love about the law…it’s that every now and again – not often but occasionally – you get to be a part of justice being done. That really is quite a thrill when that happens.” Andrew Beckett “Philadelphia”
The losers’ lawyers put out a joint statement on behalf of Pharrell, Thicke and TI, saying they are “disappointed” and “considering…options”, but I’ll bet Cool TI is celebrating right now because the jury found he did nothing wrong. My family & friends can attest to me predicting Pharrell & Thicke would lose. The first time I heard “Got to Give it up” at a club on Mosquito Beach, SC, the beat dropped & everybody started grooving, dancing, partying. I could hear “Got to give it up” in “Blurred Lines”. U.S. copyright law lets you use another artist’s work in your new song, but you got to pay. Its called compulsory licensing.
Robin Thicke has jokes. He testified that he was so high on vicodin and alcohol, he doesn’t remember anything. (“Blame it on the alcohol”). Pharrell still insists he’s innocent. (“My mind playing tricks on me”) (“Smile”).
I love music.
One Love…
Aria