Radiohead Publisher Sets Record Straight With Lana Del Rey: ‘No Lawsuit Has Been Issued’
Radiohead's publisher, Warner/Chappell, has denied claims made by Lana Del Rey that the band filed a lawsuit against her for copying their song, "Creep."
Lana Del Rey's Claim
On Sunday, Jan. 7, Rey confirmed reports published by several British news outlets that Radiohead was taking her to court over her song, "Get Free."
It’s true about the lawsuit. Although I know my song wasn’t inspired by Creep, Radiohead feel it was and want 100% of the publishing - I offered up to 40 over the last few months but they will only accept 100. Their lawyers have been relentless, so we will deal with it in court.
— Lana Del Rey (@LanaDelRey) January 7, 2018
The reports claimed that the alternative British rock band felt Rey's track was copied from Radiohead's 1993 hit, "Creep" and wanted Rey to give them songwriting credits, money, or both for the same.
This led to reports stating that Radiohead had already filed papers in court against the "Summertime Sadness" hitmaker. During a concert in Denver, on Sunday, the 32-year-old musician further fueled speculation saying that the lawsuit may possibly result in the removal of "Get Free" from future copies of her album Lust for Life.
Warner/Chappell's Statement Refuting Singer's Claims
In the wake of Rey's lawsuit claims, Radiohead's music publisher, Warner/Chappell Music, released a statement on Tuesday, Jan. 9. In the statement, the company said that although it has been in talks with Rey's team over both tracks, they have not taken any legal action against the singer, as she claims.
In its statement, the publisher said that it is "clear" some of the musical elements in the verses of "Get Free" have been used from verses of "Creep" and has requested Rey's team that the same is acknowledged and the songwriters are given the credit they deserve.
"To set the record straight, no lawsuit has been issued and Radiohead have not said they 'will only accept 100 percent' of the publishing of 'Get Free,'" the statement reads.
'Creep' Copied From 1972 Song 'The Air That I Breathe'?
Ironically, Radiohead was at the receiving end of a plagiarism lawsuit filed by songwriters Albert Hammond and Mike Hazelwood shortly after the release of "Creep." Hammond and Hazelwood claimed that the song was similar to 1972 song written by the pair, "The Air That I Breathe," for the pop group, The Hollies.
Radiohead eventually had to give the duo songwriting credits as well as a percentage of royalties. Therefore, if Radiohead does end up taking Rey to court, it remains to be known how it will benefit Hammond and Hazelwood should the court rule in the band's favor.
