There is no doubt that “Blurred Lines” by White R&B singer Robin Thicke, who has long been popular in the Black community, is one of the most exciting songs of the year, and also without doubt the hottest recording of the summer.
Moreover, it found full acceptance on both Pop and R&B stations and the charts, reaching and holding on to the No. 1 spot for many weeks in the latter.
But the family of the late Marvin Gaye, most specifically his son, Marvin Gaye III, seem determined to not let go of the fact that the song bears a strong resemblance to Marvin Gaye’s 1977 supercharged party classic, “Got To Give It Up.”
As this is being written, it is still uncertain whether or not the Gaye family will sue, although a key member of the family has implied they will. However, the question remains whether or not “Blurred Sounds” sounds enough like “Blurred Lines” for a lawsuit to be successfully carried out.
Indeed, Jeffrey Osborne once recorded a song titled “Congratulations.” Later, Vesta made a recording also titled “Congratulations” that was very similar. Osborne considered suing but lamented that it was “just different enough” to make a lawsuit unfeasible.
“Blurred Lines” was written by Robin Thicke, Pharrell Williams and T.I., who filed an action against the Gaye family, to “counteract” any potential suit by that family.
Thicke says he has “the utmost respect for and admiration of Marvin Gaye.” And Marvin Gaye III said he is a fan of Robin Thicke, “but there’s a way to do business and a way not to do business.”
Further, Gaye’s son says this is not about money — though some question that — it is about “upholding my father’s legacy.”