Referral code for up to $80 off applied at checkout

Referral code for up to $80 off applied at checkout

Vinyl Me, Please

Ed Sheeran co-writer speaks out as ‘Thinking Out Loud’ finally concludes: “It’s a huge relief”

On June 18, 2025
# Ed Sheeran's 'Thinking Out Loud': A Decade-Long Legal Battle Concludes with Supreme Court Ruling ## Key Highlights - The U.S. Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal regarding Ed Sheeran’s hit song "Thinking Out Loud," effectively ending a 10-year legal dispute over copyright claims. - Co-writer Amy Wadge expressed relief over the ruling, citing the emotional and financial toll the lawsuit had on her life and career. - The lawsuit centered on allegations that Sheeran's song copied Marvin Gaye's "Let’s Get It On," focusing on the similarity of chord patterns. - The case's resolution underscores broader implications for creativity and copyright law in the music industry. ## Introduction When Ed Sheeran’s "Thinking Out Loud" was released in 2014, it quickly soared to the top of charts worldwide, showcasing the singer-songwriter’s unique blend of pop, folk, and R&B influences. However, behind its romantic lyrics and catchy melody lay a protracted legal struggle that would last nearly a decade. In a pivotal ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court recently dismissed an appeal related to copyright claims against Sheeran, effectively concluding a legal battle that raised significant questions about the nature of originality in music. This article delves into the intricacies of the case, the implications for the music industry, and the perspectives of those involved. ## The Genesis of the Legal Dispute The legal troubles surrounding "Thinking Out Loud" began in 2016 when the heirs of Ed Townsend, the co-writer of Marvin Gaye's classic "Let’s Get It On," accused Sheeran and his co-writer Amy Wadge of copyright infringement. They claimed that Sheeran's song borrowed heavily from the chord progression of Gaye's hit. The plaintiffs sought a staggering $100 million in damages, igniting a legal confrontation that would capture the attention of the music industry and the public alike. ### Chord Progressions and Copyright Law Central to the lawsuit was the argument that both songs shared a similar syncopated chord pattern. In legal terms, chord progressions—especially those as common as those used in pop music—can create complex challenges when it comes to copyright. Sheeran’s defense argued that the chord progressions were merely foundational elements found in countless songs, emphasizing that they are common "building blocks" of the genre. In 2023, a jury sided with Sheeran, determining that the similarities between the two songs were not substantial enough to constitute copyright infringement. This verdict was later upheld by the New York-based Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, signaling a critical moment in the ongoing discourse about copyright in music. ## The Emotional Toll on Creators Reflecting on the years of litigation, Wadge expressed profound relief at the Supreme Court's decision. “It’s been rolling news under my life for 10 years… I was able to feel like I’d had a hit for a year and then all of a sudden it felt like the wolves were surrounding,” she recounted in an interview. Her comments underscore the emotional burden that such legal battles can impose on artists, as the threat of financial ruin looms large over their creative endeavors. ### The Broader Implications for Songwriters Wadge emphasized that beyond the financial implications, the lawsuit represented an existential threat to the songwriting community. “If SAS had been successful, it really would have caused a huge issue for creativity in general,” she stated. This sentiment resonates with many artists who fear that overly aggressive copyright claims could stifle innovation and collaboration in music. ## The Supreme Court Verdict On June 16, 2023, the Supreme Court denied an appeal from Structured Asset Sales (SAS), which had pursued the case after earlier rulings favored Sheeran. The court's ruling reflected a tacit acknowledgment of the complexities involved in music copyright, particularly the notion that many chord progressions are not unique to a single work. As Judge Michael Park articulated in the court's opinion, “No reasonable jury could find that the two songs, taken as a whole, are substantially similar in light of their dissimilar melodies and lyrics.” This ruling not only affirmed Sheeran’s legal standing but also set a precedent for future cases involving similar claims. ## The Aftermath and Future of 'Thinking Out Loud' Despite the legal tumult, "Thinking Out Loud" remains one of Sheeran’s most successful tracks, having spent over two years on the UK singles chart and earning him a Grammy for Song of the Year in 2016. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its impact beyond the legal disputes, resonating with audiences worldwide. ### The Creative Process Behind 'Thinking Out Loud' In the wake of the case's resolution, Wadge reflected on the song's creation, describing it as a life-changing moment in her career. “I didn’t have a hit until I was 37… that was the one,” she noted. The collaborative process between Wadge and Sheeran, marked by mutual respect and creativity, has produced music that many consider timeless. ## The Role of Social Media in Music Litigation The case also highlighted the increasing role of social media in shaping public opinion about music and litigation. As the saga unfolded, fans took to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to express their support for Sheeran, often rallying against what they perceived as a frivolous lawsuit. This grassroots support may have played a role in the public narrative surrounding the case, further emphasizing the intersection of artistry and audience engagement in the digital age. ### The Future of Copyright in Music With the conclusion of this high-profile case, the music industry may experience a shift in how copyright claims are approached. The court's decision sends a clear message that while protecting artistic work is paramount, the line between inspiration and infringement must be navigated carefully to allow for creative freedom. ## FAQ ### What was the basis of the lawsuit against Ed Sheeran? The lawsuit accused Sheeran and co-writer Amy Wadge of copying the chord progression from Marvin Gaye’s "Let’s Get It On" in their song "Thinking Out Loud." ### How long did the legal battle last? The legal battle lasted nearly 10 years, beginning with accusations in 2016 and concluding with a Supreme Court ruling in 2023. ### What was the outcome of the case? The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed an appeal from Structured Asset Sales, ending the legal dispute and affirming earlier rulings in favor of Sheeran. ### What are the broader implications of this case for songwriters? The case highlights significant concerns about how copyright claims can affect the creative process in music, potentially stifling innovation if overly aggressive litigation becomes common. ### How did Ed Sheeran and Amy Wadge react to the verdict? Both expressed relief, with Wadge emphasizing the emotional toll of the lawsuit and the importance of the ruling for the future of songwriting. ### What has been the impact of "Thinking Out Loud"? The song remains a significant hit for Sheeran, winning a Grammy and remaining popular on charts long after its release, illustrating its cultural resonance. ### What does this case mean for future music copyright cases? The ruling sets a precedent that may influence how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly concerning common chord progressions and their use in popular music.
Share this article email icon

Join the Club!

Join Now, Starting at $44

Music Industry News

Robbie Williams Launches 'Desire': The First Official FIFA Anthem Featuring Laura Pausini
Robbie Williams Launches 'Desire': The First Official FIFA Anthem Featuring Laura Pausini Background Image

The Lasting Legacy of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater: How a Video Game Shaped Music Culture
The Lasting Legacy of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater: How a Video Game Shaped Music Culture Background Image

Cast Set to Release Anticipated Album "Yeah Yeah Yeah" Featuring P.P. Arnold
Cast Set to Release Anticipated Album "Yeah Yeah Yeah" Featuring P.P. Arnold Background Image

AJ McLean's Sobriety Journey: A New Chapter of Hope and Resilience
AJ McLean's Sobriety Journey: A New Chapter of Hope and Resilience Background Image

Controversy Erupts: Slovakia Cancels Rubicon Festival Featuring Kanye West Amid Backlash Over Antisemitic Lyrics
Controversy Erupts: Slovakia Cancels Rubicon Festival Featuring Kanye West Amid Backlash Over Antisemitic Lyrics Background Image

Paul McCartney's Got Back Tour: New Dates and Exciting Performances Across North America
Paul McCartney's Got Back Tour: New Dates and Exciting Performances Across North America Background Image

G Flip Revives '80s Vibes with New Album Dream Ride and Single "In Another Life"
G Flip Revives '80s Vibes with New Album Dream Ride and Single "In Another Life" Background Image

New Allegations Surface Against Kanye West: Sexual Assault, Stalking, and More
New Allegations Surface Against Kanye West: Sexual Assault, Stalking, and More Background Image

Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters" Aims for Oscar Glory: The Journey of Streaming to the Silver Screen
Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters" Aims for Oscar Glory: The Journey of Streaming to the Silver Screen Background Image
Categories
Genre
Collections
Hmm, no results for this search. Try again or browse the store .

Shop

Default Image

${ product.title }

${ product.vendor }
Shop the store

Magazine

${ article.title }
Read more
on the vmp magazine

Artists

${ article.title }
Read more

Pages

${ page.title }
Vinyl Me, Please
Shopping Cart

Your cart is currently empty.

Continue Browsing
Similar Records
Other Customers Bought

Subtotal

Shipping & taxes calculated at checkout

View Cart Proceed to Checkout Checkout
Make this a gift order
Free shipping for members Icon Free shipping for members
Safe & secure checkout Icon Safe & secure checkout
International shipping Icon International shipping
Quality guarantee Icon Quality guarantee