June 16, 2009 1:07
Cat Stevens forgives Coldplay for alleged plagiarism Coldplay Tickets
'I'd love to have a cup of tea with them,' says singer
Photo Gallery: Coldplay
Cat Stevens has forgiven Coldplay for allegedly stealing the melody from one of his songs and incorporating it into their 2008 hit 'Viva La Vida'.
The veteran singer-songwriter, who now goes by the name Yusuf Islam, said that the band plagiarised elements of his 1973 tune 'Foreigner Suite'. Although he continues to stand by his accusation, Islam said he doesn't harbour any ill will toward Chris Martin and co.
"I stand by what I said," Islam told the Daily Express. "They did copy my song but I don't think they did it on purpose. I have even copied myself without even knowing I have done it. I'll write down what I think is a good melody and realise it's the same as something I have already done.
"I don't want them to think I am angry with them. I'd love to sit down and have a cup of tea with them and let them know it's okay," he said.
Meanwhile, Joe Satriani has accused the band of appropriating elements of his song 'If I Could Fly' and using them in 'Viva La Vida'. The guitarist has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against the band in Los Angeles.
Coldplay have denied both claims of plagiarism.
--By our Los Angeles staff.
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