Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford The Nursery Rhyme That Ruined a Rock Band
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Feb 21, 2025 Discover the surprising twist where a beloved nursery rhyme inadvertently impacted Men at Work and their hit "Down Under." Delve into the complexities of copyright law and how it shapes the lives of musicians. Explore the emotional fallout of legal battles on friendships and fame. Uncover the cultural significance of iconic Australian songs and their lasting legacy. Plus, enjoy a humorous take on the challenges faced by parody acts like the Rutles. This captivating discussion reveals the thin line between inspiration and infringement.
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Quiz Show Revelation
- On "Spicks and Specs", contestants struggled to connect "Down Under" with a nursery rhyme.
- This sparked a major copyright dispute.
Down Under's Origins
- "Down Under" began as a collaboration between Colin Hay and Ron Streichert.
- Greg Ham later added a flute riff, unintentionally echoing a nursery rhyme.
Kookaburra's Humble Beginnings
- Marion Sinclair, a teacher and Girl Guide leader, composed "Kookaburra" for a competition.
- She never sought royalties, considering it a gift "from above."