By: Renee Grant
When members of legendary rock band Led Zeppelin took to court earlier this year to defend themselves against accusations they stole one of their most famous songs, all eyes were on them.
What quickly became known as the Stairway to Heaven Trial, was watched by music and media outlets all over the world. Would the trial be a landmark for those in the industry? Would they win or lose?
Related: Led Zeppelin will not be Reimbursed for Legal Fees from ‘Stairway’ Trial
Francis Malofiy, prosecuting attorney, claimed the band ripped off a 1968 Spirit instrumental titled Taurus, while the rockers stood firm that their hit classic was their own.
Jimmy Page‘s testimony held some of the more dramatic moments of the trial. Rolling Stone has published the transcript of his time on the stand in its entirety.
At a point, Page was asked to compare Stairway to Heaven with the Mary Poppins tune Chim Chim Cher-ee, and when the prosecution asked how long a riff was played while in concert, Page replied, “I don’t have a stopwatch.”
Ultimately, Led Zeppelin won the trial, although they recently lost a battle to have their court expenses reimbursed.
