Satriani Sues Coldplay for Copyright Infringement

This isn't the first time Coldplay has been accused of ripping someone off for the melody of their song Viva La Vida. Of course, this time there's a lot more muscle behind the complaint.

Guitar God Joe Satriani (presumably at the urging of his record/publishing company) has sued the members of Coldplay alleging they ripped off his riff from the song If I Could Fly.

In order to prove an allegation of copyright infringement, the plaintiff (Satriani) must show:

1) Ownership of a valid Copyright
2) Unauthorized copying by the defendant(s)

#2 can be shown by "access and substantial similarity." Substantial similarity is a question for the fact finder (judge or jury). Access is pretty much presumed when a work has been published.

In all likelihood, this case will settle. The parties don't want to take this to court when they could otherwise be out on the road playing music and making money. However, in the unlikely event it does go to trial:

The two songs certainly sound substantially similar to me. Take a listen: