Bitter Sweet Symphony: The Story Behind the Iconic Song
The Dispute Over the Sample
When "Bitter Sweet Symphony" was about to be released as a single, Klein, then the head of ABKCO Records, refused clearance for the sample. He argued that the Verve had used a larger portion than agreed upon. According to the Verve's guitarist, Nick McCabe, the dispute hinged not on the sample but on Ashcroft's vocal melody, which a musicologist determined was substantially similar to the Rolling Stones' "The Last Time."
The Resolution
After a lengthy legal battle, the Verve was forced to give up all royalties from the song to Jagger and Richards. However, in 2019, Jagger and Richards signed over their rights to the song, finally giving the Verve the credit they deserved.
The Inspiration for the Song
Ashcroft wrote "Bitter Sweet Symphony" after a relationship breakup. He was inspired by the Rolling Stones' "The Last Time," a song about a man who is struggling to come to terms with the end of a relationship. Ashcroft's lyrics reflect a similar sentiment, lamenting the bittersweet nature of love and loss.
The Music Video
The music video for "Bitter Sweet Symphony" is just as iconic as the song itself. It features Ashcroft walking down a busy London street, oblivious to the chaos around him. The video captures the song's message of resilience and determination, as Ashcroft refuses to let the world get him down.
The Legacy of "Bitter Sweet Symphony"
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" has become one of the most enduring songs of the 1990s. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows and has been covered by artists such as U2 and Lana Del Rey. The song's message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with listeners today.
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