Benson Boone Responds To Harry Styles Plagiarism Claims

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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The Alleged Similarities Between "In the Dark" and "As It Was"

The core of the controversy lies in the perceived similarities between Benson Boone's "In the Dark" and Harry Styles' "As It Was." Many listeners and critics have pointed out striking parallels in several musical elements. A detailed musical analysis reveals potential points of contention:

• Melodic Similarity: Several sections of the melodies in both songs share a strikingly similar contour and phrasing. Specifically, the pre-chorus of "In the Dark" bears a close resemblance to the chorus of "As It Was," particularly between timestamps [Insert specific timestamps from both songs for comparison]. This melodic similarity forms the basis of many plagiarism accusations.

• Rhythmic Comparison: The rhythmic structure of the verses in both songs exhibits a similar pattern of syncopation and upbeat tempo. While not identical, the overall feel and rhythmic drive are remarkably similar, potentially leading to subconscious influence or even intentional copying.

• Harmonic Analysis: A deeper harmonic analysis reveals a potential overlap in chord progressions, especially in the choruses. Both songs utilize similar major key progressions, contributing to the overall feeling of musical kinship. (Insert a link to a professional analysis if one exists).

• Instrumentation Comparison: While the instrumentation differs in specific sounds, both songs utilize a similar blend of synth sounds, percussion, and bass lines, creating a similar sonic landscape. The overall production style also appears to have commonalities.

[Insert embedded audio snippets or links to "In the Dark" and "As It Was" here, perhaps with specific timestamps highlighted for easy comparison.]

Benson Boone's Official Response to the Plagiarism Claims

Benson Boone has yet to issue a formal, comprehensive statement directly addressing the plagiarism claims. However, [mention any indirect comments or social media activity]. [Insert a link to any official statement or relevant interview].

Analyzing Boone’s limited response, it is currently difficult to determine whether it constitutes a denial, an apology, or an attempt at explanation. A more definitive statement is needed to clarify his position on the allegations and provide clarity to his fans and critics alike. The absence of a thorough response only fuels speculation and intensifies the controversy. This lack of clarity leaves the matter open to interpretation and further discussion.

Expert Opinions and Legal Perspectives on the Plagiarism Claims

Copyright infringement in music is a complex legal matter. Determining whether plagiarism has occurred requires a nuanced understanding of musical copyright law and consideration of several factors, including:

• Substantial Similarity: Legal precedent dictates that there must be a degree of "substantial similarity" between the two works for copyright infringement to be established. This requires more than just isolated similarities; rather, it involves a holistic comparison of the overall composition.

• Access: The plaintiff (in this case, Harry Styles or his representatives) would need to demonstrate that Benson Boone had access to "As It Was." While this may not be difficult to prove given the song's popularity, it's still a necessary element.

• Fair Use: There's always the possibility of arguing "fair use," which allows the use of copyrighted material under certain circumstances, such as parody or criticism. However, this is unlikely to be a successful defense in this case, given the apparent closeness of the similarities.

We reached out to [mention any music lawyers or industry experts consulted, and include their quotes if permission is granted]. Their opinions and insights into the legal implications of this case are crucial in understanding the gravity of the accusations.

Public Reaction and Social Media Sentiment

Social media has exploded with opinions since the similarities between "In the Dark" and "As It Was" surfaced. The hashtag #BensonBoonePlagiarism has trended widely, with discussions ranging from passionate defenses of Boone to scathing criticisms and calls for accountability. [Include relevant screenshots of social media posts and mentions if possible].

Public opinion is divided, with some arguing that the similarities are coincidental and others vehemently claiming deliberate plagiarism. The intensity of the online discussions and the sheer volume of opinions highlight the significant impact of this controversy on Boone's career and the wider music landscape. The online chatter presents a dynamic reflection of the public's varied interpretations of the alleged musical similarities.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Debate Surrounding Benson Boone and Harry Styles

The controversy surrounding Benson Boone and Harry Styles, centered on the alleged plagiarism of "As It Was" in "In the Dark," remains unresolved. We've examined the alleged similarities through musical analysis, reviewed Boone's limited official response, considered the legal and expert perspectives, and explored the diverse public reaction across social media. Ultimately, whether or not copyright infringement occurred remains a matter of debate and further investigation. We encourage you to listen to both songs, consider the evidence presented, and share your informed opinion in the comments section below. What are your thoughts on the Benson Boone and Harry Styles plagiarism claims? Let the discussion continue!