Robbie Williams defends Olivia Rodrigo over Christmas song copying claim
Robbie Williams defended Olivia Rodrigo against copying accusations. He also criticised the music industry's lawsuit culture.
Fans accused Olivia Rodrigo of copying Robbie Williams' 2012 Christmas song Candy. The track is called take me home (4 christmas).
Williams, 52, said he didn't care about the copy claim. Williams stressed that Rodrigo, 23, is brilliant.
In an online statement, he criticised the music industry. He said it treats every musical similarity as a chance to sue.
Most copying accusations are complete rubbish, he wrote, though some are justified. He has faced similar accusations throughout his career.
He will not pursue legal action against Rodrigo. Williams ended his statement by telling Rodrigo: you're brilliant.
- 52
- Williams' age
- 23
- Rodrigo's age
- 2012
- Williams' song year
Why it mattersWilliams' view is rare in fighting the music industry's habit of suing over every similarity. It gives artists permission to accept musical similarity without legal threats.
AustraliaNo direct Australian impact, though the principles apply to Australian artists navigating the music industry's approach to similarity claims.
