SCOTUS Shuts Down Final Appeal in Ed Sheeran Copyright Battle

On June 16, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review a bid by Structured Asset Sales to revive its copyright infringement lawsuit against Ed Sheeran. The lawsuit accused Sheeran of copying melody, harmony, and rhythm from Marvin Gaye’s 1973 hit "Let’s Get It On" in his 2014 track "Thinking Out Loud."

 

Background of the Case

Structured Asset Sales, holding publishing rights tied to co-writer Ed Townsend’s share of “Let’s Get It On,” sought damages from Ed Sheeran, his label Warner Music, and Sony Music Publishing. However:

 

• In 2023, District Judge Louis Stanton dismissed the case, stating the musical elements in question were too common to be copyrighted.

• The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed this decision, noting that elements outside the deposit sheet couldn’t be considered.

• A parallel 2023 lawsuit by Townsend’s heirs also ended in defeat for Gaye’s estate when a Manhattan jury sided with Sheeran.

 

Legal Significance

The Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the case effectively ends the legal challenge, at least for now. Plaintiffs' argument hinged on whether common musical elements, even if they recreate a notable vibe, are legally protectable. The courts have consistently held that generic melodic or rhythmic patterns, lacking originality, fall outside copyright protection.

 

Read more: UAE Strengthens Copyright & Patent Protection

 

Implications for Both Artists and Rights Holders

• For songwriters and publishers, this decision limits copyright claims to distinctive, original elements, not shared conventions.

• For the music industry, the ruling confirms that the bar for proving infringement remains high, requiring proof of substantial similarity of protected original content.

• For Sheeran, this victory reinforces an earlier recognition of his work’s originality and lawful inspiration.

 

Expert Commentary

Sunil Ambalavelil, Chairman of Kaden Boriss and one of the best lawyers in Dubai on Intellectual Property (IP) and technology, noted:

 

“This decision reiterates a core principle of copyright law—protection is reserved for original and expressive content, not generic musical building blocks. It ensures artistic creativity and industry stability.”

 

Key Takeaways

• SCOTUS refused to review Structured Asset Sales’ appeal.

• Lower courts ruled that common musical elements cannot be protected.

• Earlier jury verdicts also favoured Sheeran, reinforcing legal precedent.

• Rights holders must now focus on distinctive components, like original lyrics or unique arrangement, to pursue legal action.

 

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