Marvin Gaye’s relatives have this week written an open letter to fans in order to clear up “a few misconceptions” surrounding the court case they won against Blurred Lines hitmakers Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke.
Nona Gaye, Frankie Gaye and Marvin Gaye III have released a lengthy statement about the case.
“On behalf of all those who Dad always considered an extended family, his fans, we take this opportunity to set the record straight on a few misconceptions… about our intentions, our plans, and the so-called ‘larger’ ramifications of this case within the music industry,” the letter reads.
“Got To Give It Up became one of our dad’s most cherished hits… Like most artists, they could have licenced and secured the song for appropriate usage; a simple procedure usually arranged in advance of the song’s release.
“This did not happen… Instead… Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams released Blurred Lines and then filed a pre-emptive lawsuit against us, forcing us into court.
Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams released the song.
“They sought to quickly affirm that their song was ‘starkly different’ than Got to Give It up.
“Great artists like our dad intentionally build their music to last, but we as the caretakers of such treasures, have an obligation to be vigilant about preserving the integrity of the music so that future generations understand its origins and feel its effect as the artist intended, and to assure that it retains its value.”
The family later went on to dismiss rumours that they are planning to sue Williams again for his song Happy.
“We want to put to rest any rumours that we are contemplating claims against Pharrell Williams for his song, Happy.
“This is 100 per cent false. We have absolutely no claim whatsoever concerning Happy.”
