Is 'Stairway to Heaven' Stolen? A Legal and Musical Analysis
The long-standing controversy surrounding the origins of Led Zeppelin’s 1971 hit, 'Stairway to Heaven,' continues to captivate both music enthusiasts and legal scholars. The allegation that 'Stairway to Heaven' bears an uncanny resemblance to Taurus, a lesser-known track by Spirit, has sparked numerous debates and lawsuits. Is it possible that Jimmy Page and Robert Plant inadvertently copied the composition, or is this merely a case of two songs sharing a set of chords?
Chord Progressions and Copyright Law
Contrary to popular belief, chord progressions cannot be copyrighted. This means that anyone can and does use whatever chords they like in their compositions. The idea of owning an A minor chord is absurd; it would be akin to trying to claim ownership over a blue sky. Chords, like the weather, are free for all to use.
The similarities between 'Stairway to Heaven' and Taurus lie more in the harmonic context and the structure of the chords rather than a direct copyright violation. The bridge in Taurus has a similar harmonic context to a 16th-century Italian piece. However, Benmont Tench of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers expanded on this by using a more complex progression, moving from D F major 7 to C in A minor, an octave lower than the start of the melody.
Blind Accusations and Legal Strife
The legal battle surrounding 'Stairway to Heaven' is more about misplaced allegations and innuendo than any genuine copyright infringement. Critics who believe they are pointing out a wrong accuse Led Zeppelin of copying Taurus, but in reality, they are just reiterating what everyone can see. This is akin to accusing another painter of painting blue skies when he has done the same.
It's important to clarify what the actual chord progressions are. Led Zeppelin used Am, Cmaj7b5, C, D, F, bass F major 7, and G, Am. Spirit, on the other hand, used A minor, A minor major 7, and C. This is a clear distinction.
The Chromatic Beauty of 'Stairway to Heaven'
The chromatic beauty of the chords in 'Stairway to Heaven' gives the song its profound and enchanting quality. The music’s magic stems from the finesse with which these notes are played, rather than any similarity to Taurus. Spirit’s composition, while well-regarded, may be a bit limited in scope.
Ambulance Chasing Lawyers and the Curious Case
Additionally, there are hints of legal shenanigans in the case. The focus on 'Stairway to Heaven' has raised questions about whether the lawsuit was initiated for legitimate reasons or had financial motivations. Legal experts suggest that the plaintiff approached the heirs of Spirit’s Robert Bearden and offered to sue on contingency. This move was likely motivated by a history of plagiarism in the music industry, as Page had plagiarized lyrics in the past. The contingency offer created a conflict of interest and an environment ripe for exploitation.
In conclusion, the similarities between 'Stairway to Heaven' and Taurus are more about shared chord progressions than a direct copyright violation. 'Stairway to Heaven' stands as a timeless composition that reflects the rich and diverse musical heritage of the 1970s. The legal battle, however, reminds us of the importance of maintaining ethical standards in the pursuit of justice and the complexities of authorship in music.