Paul McCartney Plagiarized a Rutles Song.
I realize this sounds extremely silly, but hear me out: there is a scene in the
Rutles movie where Eric Idle, done up like a late-'60s McCartney, is trying to
write a song commemorating his wedding to French actress Martini
(played by Mick Jagger's wife, Bianca).
I maintain that the song he sings at the piano--still unfinished and without any
words--sounds eerily similar to a number by Paul McCartney on his 2005 album
Chaos and Creation in the Back Yard, called "Follow Me."
Take a listen for yourself: first, Eric singing in The Rutles...
Now, Paul singing "Follow Me"...
Keep in mind that the Rutles movie was made in 1978, and Paul did not write
this song until the 2000s. I also can't recognize Eric's song as being a
parody of any specific Beatles song, so the fault does not seem to lie on that end
of things.
Aren't they similar? Very clever use of
retrospective plagiarism, I must say, Paulie. Tryin' to make a name for yourself by
sponging off the Rutles' fame? You should be ashamed.
In an article published by New Musical Express
(
http://www.nme.com/news/110232.htm)
Paul is asked about the song, and gives a vague response:
Q: I like the new song "Follow Me." What was your inspiration?
It makes sense that Paul wouldn't want to be too specific about the origins
of this song. Mr. Idle, if you are reading this, I recommend getting in touch with
a good lawyer.
NOTE: I'm kidding, naturally, about this being intentional plagiarism on Paul's part,
but it's a true-to-life example of how two different people can write the same
melodies (See George in the "He's So Fine" debacle). What makes it truly funny
is that it comes from Paul, though. It's perfect! :)
Paul: Love, love, love.
Get back, Jojo, to the main page!