Benson Boone Responds To Harry Styles Plagiarism Claims

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on Apr 26, 2025

4.4

Share

H2: The Alleged Similarities Between "In the Dark" and "Golden"

The core of the controversy lies in the perceived similarities between Benson Boone's "In the Dark" and Harry Styles' "Golden." Many listeners have pointed out striking resemblances in melody, harmony, and even song structure.

• Melodic Similarities: Several sections of both songs feature strikingly similar melodic contours, particularly in the verses. Direct comparisons of specific musical phrases reveal a noteworthy degree of congruence.
• Harmonic Similarities: The chord progressions in both "In the Dark" and "Golden" share a significant number of common chords, creating a similar harmonic landscape. This similarity in underlying harmonic structure is a key component of the plagiarism accusations.
• Rhythmic Similarities: While not identical, the rhythmic feel of both songs shares a similar tempo and groove, contributing to the overall feeling of similarity. This is further substantiated by listener feedback on various online platforms.
• Song Structure: The overall structures of the songs, including verse-chorus arrangements and bridge placements, also display noticeable similarities. This creates an overall auditory experience that some perceive as too similar to be coincidental.

[Link to "In the Dark"]

[Link to "Golden"]

It's crucial to acknowledge that musical similarities alone don't automatically equate to plagiarism. Musical elements, particularly chord progressions and basic melodic structures, are often shared across different genres and eras. However, the cumulative effect of the similarities between "In the Dark" and "Golden" has fueled the current controversy.

H2: Benson Boone's Official Response to the Plagiarism Claims

Benson Boone has yet to release a formal statement addressing the plagiarism allegations directly. While he hasn't explicitly denied the similarities, he also hasn't offered a detailed explanation. This silence has only amplified speculation and fueled the ongoing debate across social media platforms. The lack of a robust response from Boone's team or legal representatives has left many feeling unsatisfied. The absence of a definitive statement leaves room for various interpretations and has contributed significantly to the controversy's escalation. Further updates will be added to this article as new information emerges.

H2: Public Reaction and Media Coverage of the Controversy

The internet has exploded with discussion regarding the alleged plagiarism, with strong opinions expressed on both sides.

• Social Media Reaction: Hashtags like #BooneStylesPlagiarism and #InTheDarkGolden have trended, showcasing the widespread public engagement and fervent debate. Fans of both artists have expressed a mixture of outrage, support, and uncertainty.
• News Coverage: Major music publications and news outlets have reported on the controversy, furthering its reach and intensifying public scrutiny. This widespread media coverage has undoubtedly magnified the impact of the allegations on both artists' public image.
• Impact on Careers: The controversy's long-term impact on the careers of both Benson Boone and Harry Styles remains uncertain. The situation highlights the inherent risks associated with the creation and release of popular music, underscoring the complexities of copyright law in the modern music industry.

H3: Legal Implications and Copyright Law

The legal ramifications of this situation are complex. Copyright law protects original musical compositions, including melody, harmony, and rhythm. Establishing plagiarism requires proving substantial similarity that goes beyond mere coincidence.

• Likelihood of Legal Action: Whether either artist will pursue legal action remains to be seen. The decision depends on several factors, including the strength of the evidence, the cost of litigation, and the potential impact on their careers.
• Fair Use: The concept of "fair use" in copyright law might be considered. This doctrine allows limited use of copyrighted material for purposes such as criticism, commentary, or parody. However, the applicability of fair use in this context is highly debatable.
• Legal Precedent: Past cases involving similar accusations of musical plagiarism could serve as precedents, but each case is unique and depends on specific facts and circumstances.

3. Conclusion:

The Benson Boone and Harry Styles plagiarism controversy is a compelling case study in the complexities of musical copyright. While undeniable similarities exist between "In the Dark" and "Golden," the legal and ethical implications remain unclear, especially given the lack of a direct statement from Benson Boone. The public reaction is divided, showcasing the intense passion and engagement surrounding both artists. This situation serves as a reminder of the fine line between inspiration and infringement in the creative world. We encourage you to share your thoughts – do you believe the similarities constitute plagiarism? Keep checking back for updates as this controversy continues to unfold.