Viva La Vida Infringement Case Dismissed

Less than a year after filing a copyright infringement lawsuit, Joe Satriani and the band Coldplay have settled their legal battle out of court. The lawsuit claims the title track off the band's 'Viva La Vida' album contains "substantial, original portions" of Satriani's 2004 song, 'If I Could Fly.' The songwriting credit on the Coldplay song is attributed to the band's four members: singer Chris Martin, bass player Guy Berryman, guitarist Jonny Buckland and drummer Will Champion.

Initially, Satriani wanted a federal judge to order an accounting so he could determine how much money he may be owed, or else stop the band from using the song. Coldplay then issued this public statement, "With the greatest possible respect to Joe Satriani, we have now unfortunately found it necessary to respond publicly to his allegations. If there are any similarities between our two pieces of music, they are entirely coincidental, and just as surprising to us as to him. Joe Satriani is a great musician, but he did not write the song 'Viva La Vida.' We respectfully ask him to accept our assurances of this and wish him well with all future endeavors."

Howard E. King, attorney for Satriani states there was no alternative after several attempts to communicate with the band soured and legal actions were imminent. King said it's common for musicians to be influenced by other works and incorporate it into their own, sometimes a little too closely. The reaction is usually different when the similarities are pointed out. "It doesn't mean you don't owe something to the original composer."

Satriani was seeking damages as well as any and all profits attributable to the alleged copyright infringement but details of the case remain sealed. Legal sources said a financial settlement between the two parties may have been reached. Coldplay will not be required to admit to any wrongdoing.