Watermelon Theory

Music, of course, inspires other musicians to make more music— this is the cycle of artistry. However, sometimes this inspiration and tendency to reference infringes on the copyright of the original work. Accusations of music copyright infringement abound when two songs seem a little too similar to be loosely influenced or altogether unrelated. Musicians can only own their music and lyrics; That is, they can own a vocal melody and melodic instrumental riffs, but not specific beats, chord progressions, or intervals as these are too ubiquitous. Nonetheless, musicians will protect what they own, especially when an infringing work is highly successful. To prove copyright infringement two things must be demonstrated: First, that the perpetrator had access to the original work and that they did not, come up with a similar melody or aspect independently. Second, that the works are indeed intrinsically similar. This playlist delves into some of these surprising accusations and considers whether the plaintiffs were successful at pursuing infringement settlements. Sources used for this show: "Analysis of Copyright Infringement," Berklee College of Music and GW Law and Columbia Law Music Copyright Infringement Resource.