Iconic rock band Iron Maiden is facing a multi-million pound legal battle, after it was accused of stealing lyrics from another song to be used in its popular hit ‘Hallowed Be Thy Name’.
According to reports, music impresario Barry McKay has launched High Court copyright action against the band which is estimated to be worth up to £3m.
The former Lindisfarne manager turned concert promoter has filed papers accusing Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris of lifting lyrics and music from the little-known song ‘Life’s Shadow’, formerly written by Newcastle-based Brian Quinn in 1969.
High Court papers state that Iron Maiden bassist Mr Harris, alongside guitarist Dave Murray, the band’s publishing company and others are being sued for “unspecified damages over £200,000 for alleged copyright breaches,” according to a report in The Mirror.
The High Court papers claim that a ‘substantial portion’ of Iron Maiden’s 1982 hit ‘Hallowed Be Thy Name’ features Mr Quinn’s original 1969 lyrics and words.
They add that music from ‘Life’s Shadow’ makes an appearances on Iron Maiden’s 12th studio album, in the song ‘The Nomad’.
Mr McKay has said that he is ‘determined’ to stand up for the rights of Mr Quinn – a now 66-year-old musician who claims he is ‘stunned’ that his original lyrics have inadvertently helped Iron Maiden to become so successful.
“I’m not exactly sure how [the music and lyrics] ended up with Iron Maiden, but I’m sure it will all come out in the Court case,” he said.
A spokesperson on behalf of the iconic band said: “Phantom Management are aware of the action brought by Barry McKay against Steve Harris and Dave Murray”.
“Any evidence presented by Mr McKay will be looked at very closely and a Defence at Court will be submitted in due course,” they added.
According to reports, the band has recently dropped the track ‘Hallowed Be Thy Name’ from its ongoing tour.