Top 10 BEST Rip Off Songs Of All Time

#10: Bitter Sweet Symphony

The Verve

Although the Verve never became big outside of the UK, their greatest hit remains timeless. Bitter Sweet Symphony has a deep sense of sadness and self-reflection, as if speaking to each of its listeners personal journeys. The powerful violin loop tugs at our soul, drawing us into the songs notes from start to finish. But the now-iconic loop is sampled from an orchestral version of the Rolling Stones song, The Last Time. While the Verve licensed the orchestral version, they were sued for failing to secure rights to the original. The dispute was finally resolved in 2019, allowing the world to fully appreciate Bitter Sweet Symphony for all its haunting beauty.

#9: Stay with Me

Sam Smith

Still ranking as the biggest hit in Sam Smiths career, Stay with Me is a gospel-inspired ballad that continues to resonate with listeners. Its raw portrayal of loneliness and longing is amplified by the songs soulful melody. The message of clinging to love even when its slipping away is universal, connecting even with those who havent experienced heartbreak. Interestingly, Tom Pettys name is credited as one of the songwriters thats because of the uncanny similarity between Stay with Me and Pettys 1989 hit, I Wont Back Down. Pettys version is more positive and upbeat, but the melodic overlap is impossible to ignore. Still, theres no hard feelings between Petty and Smith, with the former calling it a musical accident.

#8: Folsom Prison Blues

Johnny Cash

As far as lyrics go, Johnny Cash lifted them straight out of Crescent City Blues, a song written by composer Gordon Jenkins and performed by his wife, Beverly Mahr. Two decades later, Cash settled a lawsuit for a reported $75,000. Still, Cash deserves credit for tonally reinventing Jenkins song. That gritty, rhythmic beat captures the dangerous vibe that Cash goes for, turning Folsom Prison Blues into a foot-tapping, finger-snapping experience. The song never lets up, starting just as strongly as it ends, keeping the adrenaline pumping through every second. Sure, its a rip-off, but the track defined a generation and left a lasting legacy that endures to this day.

#7: My Sweet Lord

George Harrison

Following this songs massive success, Harrison lost a copyright lawsuit alleging he lifted the melody from Hes So Fine by the Chiffons. Whether you agree that the ex-Beatle subconsciously plagiarised it or not is up to you. But what we do know is that Harrisons song remains a transcendent masterpiece. It's easy to lose yourself in its gentle rhythm, transporting you to faraway lands that exist entirely in your imagination. Even if you arent a believer, Harrison's vocals and spiritual overtones will make you one for as long as the song lasts. Its heartfelt, its real, and it remains the defining hit of Harrisons career as a solo artist.

#6: Viva La Vida

Coldplay

A crown jewel in Coldplays discography, Viva La Vida was a runaway success, topping charts worldwide and winning the Grammy for Song of the Year. But shortly after release, guitarist Joe Satrianis lawsuit alleged that the song copied elements from his composition, If I Could Fly. Though the case was dismissed, allegations have persisted. Still, that hasnt stopped fans from enjoying Coldplays genre-defying hit for years to come. The track evokes a grand, regal tone, complementing its lyrical themes about fallen kings and the search for meaning. Listening to it feels like a journey across centuries of human history, witnessing the rise and fall of empires. Its the kind of song that still gives you goosebumps no matter how many times you hear it.

#5: Creep

Radiohead

Three decades after its release, Creep remains Radioheads biggest success and one of the greatest debut singles of all time. However, the song borrows heavily from The Hollies 1972 hit, The Air I Breathe, with songwriters Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood receiving songwriting credits after a legal dispute. Lyrically, it captures how unrequited feelings can border on obsession. The slow, hazy verses convey a struggle for control before erupting into an overwhelming chorus, as pent-up emotion boils to the surface. It may not be completely original, but Creep continues to speak for anyone whos ever felt like they dont belong.

#4: Surfin U.S.A.

The Beach Boys

When most people think of rock and roll, they picture explosive guitar riffs and gritty, rebellious lyrics. But the Beach Boys helped turn surf rock into an influential subgenre. Chuck Berry deserves equal credit, considering the song mirrors the musical structure of his single, Sweet Little Sixteen. To avoid a prolonged legal dispute, Berry was credited as a co-writer, and the bands management forfeited the copyright to Berrys publisher. Even so, Surfin U.S.A. remains their claim to fame, portraying the carefree spirit of an era when surfing under the sun represented youth culture. So, whenever youre feeling down, hit play on Surfin U.S.A. and feel all your troubles just drift away.

#3: Come as You Are

Nirvana

One of Nirvanas most iconic hits, Come as You Are, consistently ranks among the greatest songs of all time. But its release nearly didnt happen, as Kurt Cobain was reportedly worried about Killing Jokes single, Eighties, which features a similar guitar riff. Although rumors of a lawsuit circulated, the dispute was ultimately unresolved. Today, few are aware of the songs controversial background, instead focusing on what it represents. Blending guitar solos with thought-provoking lyrics, its a deeply introspective experience. The emotions it conjures up remain a beautiful mystery, keeping it relevant and revered for generations of music fans. No matter how young or old, Come as You Are hits in a way that defies explanation.

#2: Whole Lotta Love

Led Zeppelin

No act has fused blues and hard rock quite like Led Zeppelin, who remain trailblazers in this form of art. Whole Lotta Love is a collision of multiple genres, radiating a sense of control amongst all of its chaos. The homage to blues is more than just a tribute, however, as the song borrows from Muddy Waters You Need Love, written by Willie Dixon. After a legal dispute, Dixons name was added as a songwriter. Even with its blues-inspired theme, Whole Lotta Love feels entirely unique, marching to the beat of its own drum. From killer guitar riffs to the bands infectious energy, its a rousing track that surges straight through your veins.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Hello, I Love You, The Doors

Ripped Off the Drum Beat from the Kinks All Day and All of the Night, But the Swagger Is All Their Own

Lust for Life, Iggy Pop

Same Beat from The Supremes You Cant Hurry Love, Yet Absolutely Slays Nonetheless

Born This Way, Lady Gaga

So Good a Spin on Madonnas Express Yourself, Even Madonna Approves

Borrowed Tune, Neil Young

Bold Enough to Borrow from the Rolling Stones Lady Jane, And Bold Enough to Make It His Own

M.O.R., Blur

The Chord Sequence Is from David Bowies Boys Keep Swinging, But the Attitude Is All Blur

#1: Come Together

The Beatles

Chuck Berrys genius inspired a whole generation, and the Beatles were no exception. Written by John Lennon, Come Together owes its funky rhythm to Berry, becoming one of the bands most iconic tracks. The similarities led to a lawsuit that was settled out of court, although thats never diminished the songs reputation. Its slower, contemplative style reimagines the original through a rock and roll lens. The brooding tone, shadowy lyrics, and smooth vocals create a noir-like aesthetic that sets it apart from anything else. While true to its era, the songs reach stretches beyond it, uniting generations of music fans into one timeless groove.

Which rip-off do you think stands on its own? Let us know in the comments.