Gorillaz - Gorillaz Accused Of Stealing 'Stylo'

Gorillaz have been accused of stealing their new single, 'Stylo', from singer Eddy Grant.

'Electric Avenue' singer Eddy said the cartoon group's latest hit takes directly from his song 'Time Warp' - originally released in the 80s - and he should be given credit for it.

He wrote: "I am outraged that the Gorillaz have infringed the copyright of my song 'Time Warp' claiming their song 'Stylo' to be an original composition.

"My song sits almost note to note with their release and is a blatant rip off. 'Time Warp' is a very popular song and has been a staple of the DJ scene for many years and I feel total disrespect from Gorillaz and their management company, especially as they are an established act."

He added that he is disappointed staff at record company shared by both acts, EMI, did not spot the similarities between the tracks sooner.

Eddy wrote: "I am very angry that this was not picked up by our mutual publisher EMI's administration division.

"It's such an obvious copy that from day one the band and their management should have taken control of this situation with EMI Publishing.

"I would like the outcome to be that the band admits that they have lifted my song, that I have a full credit for the song and an apology from the band."

Gorillaz - the brainchild of musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett - have yet to comment on the similarities between 'Time Warp' and 'Stylo' - which also features rapper Mos Def and soul artist Bobby Womack.

The band's latest album 'Plastic Beach' debuted in the UK album charts at number two yesterday (14.03.10).