British songwriter accuses U2 of stealing song
NEW YORK -- A British songwriter and guitarist is claiming that rock band U2 and lead singer Bono stole one of his songs for their 1991 album “Achtung Baby.”
In a lawsuit filed Monday in Manhattan federal court, Paul Rose says that U2 lifted elements of his song “Nae Slappin” for their song “The Fly” while they were looking for new inspiration.
The lawsuit says U2 heard his song after signing on with Island Records in 1989, the same year Rose provided a demo tape to recording studio executives.
Rose is seeking songwriting credit for “The Fly” and $5 million in damages and lawyer’s fees.
Representatives for U2 and Island Records reportedly did not return requests for comment.