The 25-year-old songwriter has been hit with a very large lawsuit from Martin Harrington and Thomas Leonard, who claim that Ed’s song Photograph is a “note-for-note” copy of their 2009 track, released by UK X-Factor winner Matt Cardle.
The plaintiffs and their publishing company HaloSongs are being represented by attorney Richard Busch, who represented Marvin Gaye’s family during their recent case over Robin Thicke and Pharrell’s single, Blurred Lines.
“My clients are professional songwriters,” the lawyer told The Hollywood Reporter.
“Their work is their life, and I am honoured that they have trusted me with this very important case.”
“We set out the facts in the lawsuit in great detail.”
Compare the two tracks for yourself in the video player below! Post continues…
According to Martin Harrington and Thomas Leonard, “The chorus sections of Amazing and the infringing Photograph share 39 identical notes – meaning the notes are identical in pitch, rhythmic duration, and placement in the measure.”
“The songs’ similarities reach the very essence of the work. The similarities go beyond substantial, which is itself sufficient to establish copyright infringement, and are in fact striking.”
At age 25, Ed is expected to be worth a whopping $76 million.
“The similarity of words, vocal style, vocal melody, melody, and rhythm are clear indicators, among other things, that Photograph copies Amazing.”
While Ed or his rep are yet to comment on the lawsuit, the pair are seeking compensation of $20 million USD ($26.7 AUD), as well as statutory damages and any ongoing royalties.
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The ginger talent is best pals with 10-time Grammy Award winner Taylor Swift.
