6 Iconic Classic Rock Tracks That Are Actually Rip-Offs

Some of the most famous classic rock tracks aren’t as original as they seem. Over the years, many bands have been accused of borrowing heavily from earlier songs, sometimes even facing lawsuits. Here are six iconic rock tracks that, while beloved, have been called out for being rip-offs.

1. Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”

Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is one of the most iconic rock songs of all time, but it has long been under scrutiny for its similarity to the instrumental “Taurus” by Spirit. The acoustic intro of both songs shares a striking resemblance, leading to a lawsuit decades later.

Though the court ultimately ruled in Zeppelin’s favor, the debate over whether the legendary track was inspired by “Taurus” continues to linger. Despite this, “Stairway to Heaven” remains a beloved anthem in the rock world.

2. The Rolling Stones – “Anybody Seen My Baby?”

The Rolling Stones released “Anybody Seen My Baby?” in 1997, but fans quickly noticed that its melody sounded eerily similar to k.d. lang’s “Constant Craving.” Before it could escalate into legal trouble, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards added lang as a co-writer.

It wasn’t intentional, according to the band, but the likeness between the two tracks is undeniable. The Stones avoided a lawsuit, and both songs continue to stand on their own, each retaining their popularity in their respective genres.

3. George Harrison – “My Sweet Lord”

George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord” was a massive hit, but it didn’t take long for listeners to draw comparisons to The Chiffons’ “He’s So Fine.” The case went to court, with Harrison ultimately found guilty of “subconscious plagiarism.”

Harrison later admitted the songs were similar but didn’t intentionally copy it. The legal battle became a landmark case in music copyright law, though Harrison’s song still holds its place as a classic.

4. Oasis – “Whatever”

Oasis was riding high in the 90s when they released “Whatever,” a song that immediately grabbed attention. However, the melody bore a close resemblance to Neil Innes’ “How Sweet to Be an Idiot.” Innes eventually sued the band, and the case was settled out of court.

Despite the lawsuit, “Whatever” became one of Oasis’ well-loved tracks, a song that remains a staple in their discography. The case also solidified the band’s reputation for drawing from other musical influences.

5. The Doors – “Hello, I Love You”

The Doors’ “Hello, I Love You” was a chart-topping hit in the 60s, but its resemblance to The Kinks’ “All Day and All of the Night” didn’t go unnoticed. Both songs share a similar riff, and Ray Davies of The Kinks considered taking legal action over the likeness.

Although no lawsuit ever came to fruition, the similarity between the tracks is undeniable. “Hello, I Love You” remains one of The Doors’ most well-known songs, but fans of The Kinks can still point out where the inspiration likely came from.

6. Nirvana – “Come as You Are”

Nirvana’s “Come as You Are” helped define the grunge era, but its riff bears a striking resemblance to Killing Joke’s “Eighties.” While Killing Joke considered a lawsuit, they ultimately decided not to pursue it after the tragic death of Kurt Cobain.

Both bands have acknowledged the similarity, but it hasn’t diminished the legacy of either track. “Come as You Are” remains one of Nirvana’s defining hits, even with its origins questioned by some music fans.