Steve Howe Denies Copyright Infringement Allegations
Image via Prog Sphere
Yes guitarist Steve Howe has firmly denied allegations of copyright infringement concerning the song “Dare to Know” from the band’s 2021 album The Quest. The lawsuit, brought by former Yes collaborator Riz Story, claims the track is a copy of his 2012 song “Reunion.” The case has also named Yes vocalist Jon Davison, who expressed disbelief over the accusations, calling the lawsuit “an utterly fictitious” and “defamatory case.”
Howe Defends His Original Melody
In a social media statement, Howe dismissed the claim outright and clarified his role in creating “Dare to Know.” “Jon Davison did not write ‘Dare to Know.’ I did, and it was based on a theme I’ve been developing since 1973,” he wrote. Howe also pointed to earlier recordings that showcase the melody, some of which were featured on an expanded 2002 release of Tales of Topographic Oceans.
To back his claim, Howe shared a 12-second audio comparison between “Dare to Know” and “The Ancient,” a 1974 recording. He explained:
“This comparison… demonstrates how Steve Howe has a version of this exact same melody in a 1974 recording.
“Here is proof of Steve exploring that very same idea in 1974, and it should be obvious that it’s much more likely the source of this melody.”
Howe noted that the only adjustment made in the audio comparison was pitching “The Ancient” up by three semitones to match “Dare to Know,” without altering the relationship between the notes.
The Accusations and What’s Next
Story’s lawsuit alleges Davison was aware of “Reunion” and collaborated with Howe to rework the song, removing Davison’s name from the credits to conceal its origins. Despite these claims, Howe’s evidence suggests the melody originated long before Story’s 2012 release.
The case is now heading to court in the Central District of California. As the legal proceedings continue, the dispute raises questions about the fine line between artistic inspiration and copyright infringement. Fans and critics will watch closely to see how this battle over musical ownership unfolds.
