Sheeran vs. Townsend: The Verdict Is In Ed Sheeran Faces Accusations of Copying ‘Let’s Get It On’
Sometimes, a song can feel similar to another, but when is it so similar that a songwriter needs to be sued? Well, Ed Sheeran faced the legal heat from the family of Ed Townsend after they claimed Sheeran’s hit song “Thinking Out Loud” was far too similar to Marvin Gaye’s classic song “Let’s Get It On,” which was written and composed by Townsend. The lawsuit was filed in July 2017 and was only resolved in 2023. Sheeran wasn’t being sued for outright copying the R&B classic but for replicating the “heart” of the song and the “harmonic progressions” and “melodic and rhythmic elements.”
artist is merely another example of [white] artists exploiting the genius and the work of Black singers and songwriters.”
During the court hearings, Sheeran attended in person and even performed live mashups of countless hit songs bearing similar chord progressions and rhythms. The musician’s testimony stated, “If I had done what you’re accusing me of doing, I’d be quite an idiot to stand on a stage in front of 20,000 people and do that.”
On May 4, 2023, a jury found Sheeran not guilty of copying “Let’s Get It On,” and the songwriter was at last free from the lawsuit. Despite the longstanding legal dispute, Sheeran and the Townsend heirs resolved the issue amicably, as the trial had proved to the family that Sheeran did not intend to copy the hit classic. Ed Townsend’s daughter, Kathryn Townsend Griffin, later said, “I’m just glad it’s over,” and that the lawsuit was never
Of course, Sheeran denied these allegations and insisted that the song is based on common building blocks for all pop music, which are in no way legally protected. While Sheeran asserted this was merely a similarity many pop songs share, Townsend’s attorney and civil rights figure Ben Crump declared, “For far too long, Black artists have created, inspired, and spread music all around the world, and Ed Townsend’s family believes Mr. Sheeran’s infringement of a Black
personal but, instead, a result of her efforts to protect her father’s legacy.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER RELIVING THE VIP DINNER EXPERIENCE
We’re always looking for new ways to give back and recognize our clients. In the past, we’ve hosted hilarious comedy shows, wonderful concerts, and fun- filled days at an amusement park. This past October, we held a very special event that proved to be a great success, and we can’t wait to host similar events throughout 2024. On Oct. 17, we hosted a VIP dinner at Hollerbach’s German Restaurant in Sanford to show
Everyone who attended the VIP dinner at Hollerbach’s German Restaurant had a great time! We enjoyed some of the best German cuisine in the state of Florida. There was also live polka music that everyone could dance to and enjoy! We covered the cost so our attendees could kick back and have a great time. This truly was a great event, and we can’t wait to do it again. Thank you to all who attended! Keep an eye out for more
our appreciation for those who have trusted us over the years. Over 20 VIPs attended this event and had a great time enjoying all the food, activities, and Moe merchandise they could handle. If you couldn’t make this VIP event, don’t worry! There will be plenty of VIP dinners and events coming up next year we would love for you to attend.
information regarding VIP dinners and events in the future. If you’re looking for something exciting and fun to do in December, turn to Page 3 so you can learn all about our next event. I guarantee this is one you don’t want to miss!
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