After more than a year of legal wrangling between the ‘Blurred Lines’ camp and Marvin Gaye’s estate, a judge has ruled that Pharrell and Robin Thicke did in fact copy Marvin’s song ‘Got To Give It Up’ for their controversial hit.
Rapper T.I., who was also featured on the song, was found not to have infringed the copyright – but Pharrell and Robin have been ordered to pay Marvin’s children $7.3 million as part of the ruling.
The case has been controversial for many reasons. During his time on the stand, Robin confessed he was high and drunk during much of the recording, giving Pharrell most of the credit for actually creating the song.
For his part, Pharrell has always maintained that the two songs share “no similarities … other than commonplace musical elements”.
The verdict, delivered by a Los Angeles jury, has been a relief for Marvin Gaye’s children. Daughter Nona told the media she felt “free” after the ruling was handed down.
“Free from … Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke’s chains and what they tried to keep on us and the lies that were told,” she said.
It may not be over yet, however, as a rep for Pharrell told Rolling Stone the ruling set a “horrible precedent for music and creativity going forward”.
“We are reviewing the decision, considering our options and you will hear more from us soon about this matter.”
