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The age-old argument that Led Zeppelin ripped off 'Taurus' by Spirit for the classic 'Stairway To Heaven' continues, with the band now set to face a jury for a plagiarism trial.
As Reuters reports, U.S. District Judge Gary Klausner says there's enough of a 'substantial' similarity between the two tracks for the case to go to trial - which will begin on 10 May.
'Taurus' was recorded by Spirit in 1967, four years before Zep recorded 'Stairway. In the interim period, the two bands toured together - and while guitarist Jimmy Page admits there's a chance that he was influenced by the track, any notion of plagiarism is 'ridiculous'.
The case was brought about by trustee for the late Spirit guitarist Randy Wolfe, Michael Skidmore - who argues that Wolfe should at least be given a writing credit on the track.
"While it is true that a descending chromatic four-chord progression is a common convention that abounds in the music industry, the similarities here transcend this core structure," said US Judge Gary Klausner. "What remains is a subjective assessment of the 'concept and feel' of two works... a task no more suitable for a judge than for a jury."
If successful, Wolfe's estate could received up to 50% of the track's royalties in damages.
Meanwhile, while a Led Zeppelin reunion grows ever more unlikely, guitarist Jimmy Page is currently putting together a new band for an upcoming album and tour.
