New lyrics, new melody.
What’s the problem?
Can you copyright a chord progression?
Can you copyright a drum beat?
Can you copyright a set of instruments that play a song?
Seems like a money grab, imo.
Take Uptown Girl by Billy Joel.
Definitely has a Four Seasons vibe.
Did Billy Joel get sued for that?
Not that I’m aware of.
Inspiration isn’t the same thing as infringement, or is it?
Greg Ham of “Men At Work” could answer your questions but he is unavailable.
Oh puhleeze! LIsten to the problem! Jimmy was a thief!
outube.com/watch?v=pTsvs-pAGDc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w772GXG5LnE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_SturUfdOI
George Harrison got sued for “My Sweet Lord.” They say he ripped off “He’s So Fine.” Harrison actually played both songs in court on a acoustic guitar. Harrison stated “it was the same chords but not the same song.” I believe he lost the case. Years ago Elvis Costello said “All musicians are magpies and thieves.” That about sums it up.