Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams have been ordered by a court to pony up some big bucks for their big hit.
A jury has decreed that the two artists – who collaborated on the 2013 smash hit "Blurred Lines" – owe Marvin Gaye’s family $7.3 million because they stole the beat to this smash hit from Gaye’s 1977 single “Got to Give It Up.”
The verdict arrived yesterday after a year-long trial, during which Thicke actually claimed he was drunk and high on Vicodin while producing the record.
“I feel free,” Marvin Gaye’s daughter, Nona Gaye told Variety after the decision was reached. “Free from… Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke’s chains and what they tried to keep on us and the lies that were told."
Thicke and Williams both testified in court, with Thicke alleging he barely remembers recording the song and Pharrell arguing that the two tracks share “feel – not infringement."
The Gaye estate said that Thicke had a “Marvin Gaye fixation” and that “Got to Give It Up” wasn’t even the only song he’s ripped off.
The legendary singer’s children also claimed he used “After the Dance” and “I Want You” for his 2011 album Love After War.
Following the verdict, Pharrell, Robin Thicke and T.I. released a statement that reads:
"While we respect the judicial process, we are extremely disappointed in the ruling made today, which sets a horrible precedent for music and creativity going forward.
"Blurred Lines was created from the heart and minds of Pharrell, Robin and T.I. and not taken from anyone or anywhere else. We are reviewing the decision, considering our options and you will hear more from us soon about this matter."