No Blessing in Disguise: Calvin Harris Faces Copyright Heat
Music fans and industry insiders alike are closely watching a developing dispute between two big names in electronic music – Calvin Harris and Chicane – after the release of Harris’ latest single “Blessings.”
Calvin Harris Faces Copyright Heat
Shortly after the track was released this month, listeners began to notice similarities with Chicane’s iconic 1996 dance anthem “Offshore.” Nick Bracegirdle, the producer behind Chicane, did not stay silent. Instead, he took to social media with a pointed message: “I would like to thank Calvin Harris for making me current again,” posted under a promotional clip on Harris’ Instagram.
On 17 May 2025, Chicane published a video comparing the two tracks side by side, looping sections to highlight what he claims are striking similarities. “It’s really hard to decipher when one comes in and one goes,” he says in the video. “That is because they’re almost identical, which is a bit of a problem. I am defending my copyright and my intellectual property here, guys.” The video was captioned, “Copyright Alert … feel free to share the truth & facts laid out here.”
In response, Calvin Harris shared his own video the following day, aligning the two tracks in an attempt to spotlight their differences. “So far, I’m not hearing it… it’s not the same… it’s genuinely not the same… but ultimately, even if that did sound the same, I’ve shifted it on the grid and I’ve pitched it as well,” he insisted. Harris also claimed that “Offshore” itself bears resemblance to “Love on a Real Train” by Tangerine Dream, a track from 1984.
While the online exchange has sparked widespread debate, the real question is whether this will evolve into a formal legal case. Will Chicane pursue a copyright infringement claim in court? Only time will tell.
Why It Matters
This situation highlights the fine line between inspiration and infringement – an increasingly relevant issue in today’s music landscape. For creators, rights holders, and producers, it’s a timely reminder of how crucial it is to understand and protect your intellectual property.
Make an Enquiry Now
If you have questions about copyright, licensing, or how to protect your creative work, please call our expert intellectual property lawyers on 0131 478 4724 or complete an Online Enquiry.
We have helped hundreds of individuals and businesses.
