Coldplay Deny 'Viva La Vida' Copy Claims In Court Papers

Coldplay have denied elements of their song ‘Viva La Vida’ are copied from a 2004 track by American guitarist Joe Santriani.

In court papers filed in Los Angeles, the band’s lawyers said any similarities weren’t enough to warrant damages.

They also said Santriani’s song "lacks originality” and isn’t in the position to receive copyright protection.

Santriani filed a lawsuit against Coldplay in December claiming their Grammy award-winning hit, released in 2008, borrowed “substantial original portions” from his 2004 song, 'If I Could Fly'.

The guitarist’s lawyer, Howard E King, said his client is seeking jury trial, damages and “any and all profits” linked to the track.

In a statement on their website last year, Coldplay denied the accusation, saying that any alleged similarity between the two songs was “entirely coincidental”.

"With the greatest possible respect to Joe Satriani, we have now unfortunately found it necessary to respond publicly to his allegations," Coldplay said.

You can listen to both songs below.

Joe Satriani - 'If I Could Fly'

Coldplay - 'Viva La Vida'

(by Jason Gregory)

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