Paddy Gardiner comments in The Times on alleged music plagiarism

Simkins’ Head of Disputes Group Paddy Gardiner is quoted in a Times’ newspaper article on plagiarism in the music industry. Discussing the involvement of expert musicologists in resolving disputes in which it is alleged that one song copies another, Paddy comments “systematic analysis of [musical] notation can be crucial” although “the judge is not bound by the expert opinion” as “it can still be a matter of impression.”

Noting the discrepancy between damages awards for infringement in the USA and UK, Paddy comments “depending on the song…it may be more important to have the rights reassigned so that ongoing royalties accrue to the claimant”.

The full article can be read here (requires a Times newspaper subscription).

Paddy handles disputes across a range of sectors, particularly in the media and entertainment industries and is recommended in Chambers & Partners as a leading individual for disputes in the music industry. He has represented both corporates and HNW individuals, including PRS for Music, Sir Elton John, U2, PPL and the Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley estates.