FIGHT? Def Leppard vs. One Direction

December 23, 2013December 22, 2013 Alan Cross 0 Comments

The cheeky buggers in One Direction are at it again. After co-opting a chunk of The Who’s “Baby O’Reilly” for their hit “Best Song Ever,” they’ve now annoyed Def Leppard fans with their song “Midnight Memories.” Why? Just listen.

First, 1D:

Got that? Now Def Leppard from 1987:

Wouldn’t you be upset? Def Leppard, however, says that they’re not contemplating legal action. Why? Because methinks that they were aware of the similarities before the 1D song was released and a deal was cut: “If you don’t sue us for any sonic similarities, we’ll give you a piece of the action.”

Believe it or not, this sort of thing happens all the time with high-profile releases.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

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