Veteran reggae singer Eddy Grant has accused Gorillaz of plagiarising one of his most famous hits.

Grant said the cartoon band's latest single 'Stylo' was a “blatant rip off” of his 1982 song 'Time Warp'.

In a statement, the 62-year-old said he was disappointed that the apparent similarities had gone unnoticed by both acts mutual publisher EMI and that he had sought legal advice.

“My song sits almost note to note with their release and is a blatant rip off,” Grant said.

“'Time Warp' is a very popular song and has been a staple of the DJ scene for many years and I feel total disrespect from Gorilliaz and their management company, especially as they are an established act."

He added: “I do not blame my publishers but the state of the industry at the current time with all labels and publishers folding into one and becoming incestuous.

“It’s such an obvious copy that from day one the band and their management should have taken control of this situation with EMI Publishing."

Grant, whose other hits include 'Electric Avenue' and 'Do You Feel My Love', said he wanted “ful credit” for the song, as well as an apology from the band.

Gorillaz, who were created by Blur's Damon Albarn, went in at number two on the UK album chart on Sunday with 'Plastic Beach', which features 'Stylo'.

(by Jason Gregory)