Structured Asset Sales LLC has formally requested that the U.S. Supreme Court review a decision by the Second Circuit in the high-profile copyright case involving Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” and Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On.” The company contends that the appellate court erred in its affirmation that the Copyright Act of 1909 merely safeguarded the sheet music of the iconic Motown track.
This move follows the Second Circuit’s opinion, which cleared Ed Sheeran of allegations that “Thinking Out Loud” unlawfully imitated Gaye’s song, upholding a previous ruling that the federal copyright protection, as outlined by the 1909 statute, does not extend beyond the written sheet music. The decision has been met with criticism by plaintiffs who argue for a broader interpretation of copyright law.
The legal implications of further judicial review could have significant ramifications for future copyright cases involving older musical works. Those interested in the evolving details of this case can refer to the original report by Law360.