February 10, 2010 17:54

US Air Force musician: Super Bowl ad wasn't White Stripes it was new song

But composer Kem Kraft apologises for simiarities

Photo Gallery: The White Stripes

The musician who composed the song featured on the US Air Force's recent Super Bowl half-time advert, which The White Stripes accused of being a re-recorded version of their song 'Fell In Love With A Girl', has apologised to the duo.

Freelance composer Kem Kraft has said that similarities between his instrumental advert song, aired on February 7 during the televised sporting event, and Jack and Meg White's 2002 hit were coincidental.

Listen to the two songs by clicking on the videos below.

"I'm sorry it sounds the same," Kraft told The New York Times. "It wasn't my intention, truly, truly, truly."

The White Stripes had threatened to take action against the Air Force over the song, saying they believe their song had been "re-recorded and used without permission".

Kraft said that he had originally submitted three songs for the advert and, after one was chosen, altered it to "beef it up". Mike Lee, of the Fast Forward Productions company in charge of the advert, said he hadn't heard 'Fell In Love With A Girl'. "I had no idea there was similarity until after the fact," he said.

He added that he was open to discussions with the band. He said he would chat if they "want to call me and talk to me – as far as I’m concerned, I’m responsible for this. Just me".