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The reason nothing came of the RHCP/Petty thing is because you can't copyright a chord progression, only melodies. That's what past landmark decisions have bore out.

The reason this is such a big deal is b/c it sets the precedent that you can copyright a vibe and a groove.

Are RT and Pharrell shmucks for a preemptive lawsuits? Surely, but that doesn't mean there is enough evidence that they completely copied the song.

I do think if there is proof that Thicke and Pharrell were referencing the Gaye track, repeatedly as they made the song, then the Gaye estate is due some money that would be virtually impossible to prove.. I'm of the opinion that they set out to make a song with a similar vibe, and really nailed it.