The Grudge Between Roger Waters and Andrew Lloyd Webber

The situation that has sparked controversy and discussion between Roger Waters and Andrew Lloyd Webber is rooted in allegations of musical inspiration—specifically, whether Lloyd Webber took a riff from Pink Floyd. This article delves into the historical context, the context of musical evolution, and the personal grudge that has fueled the debate.

The Historical Context

Roger Waters, the former bassist and lyricist of Pink Floyd, has long been a vocal critic of Andrew Lloyd Webber, particularly regarding allegations that Lloyd Webber borrowed a musical idea from Pink Floyd's composition, "Echoes." This claim has been a subject of debate for decades, with many questioning the legitimacy of such borrowing in the context of the rich history of musical inspiration.

Albert Brooks, the author of the article, summarizes his position quite succinctly:

“Roger Waters hated Andrew Lloyd Webber well before this. I am personally not a fan of either one. Roger Waters was great up until 1971 or so, and I do thank Weber for employing great musicians like Jon Hiseman and Gary Brooker at times, but I am not a fan of post-Wish You Were Here Pink Floyd or any of Weber's rock operas.”

The Context of Musical Evolution and Inspiration

Both Pink Floyd and The Beatles have contributed significantly to the musical landscape, and any similarities or borrowings should be understood within the broader context of musical evolution. Albert Brooks provides a balanced view by stating, “While there may be some similarities, both Pink Floyd and The Beatles have their unique styles and contributions to music.”

Consider the similarity between Pink Floyd's "Echoes" and The Beatles' "Across the Universe." The former song features a memorable passage:

“Cloudless every day you fall upon my waking eyes, Inviting and inciting me to rise.”

This is strikingly similar to the latter's:

“Sounds of laughter shades of life are ringing through my open ears, Inciting and inviting me.”

Further, the lines:

“Come streaming in on sunlight wings a million bright ambassadors of Morning.”

from "Echoes" can be sung to the tune of "Across the Universe."

The Personal Aspect

Albert Brooks brings a personal touch to the discussion, stating, “But if you Google Melodies and Lyrics Ripped from One Author By Another, you’ll be amazed how much ‘borrowing’ goes on. Mostly it’s thought of as flattery, unknown borrowing, or ultimately goes into litigation.” He further adds, “I believe there’s a personal reason rather than on general principle why Roger Waters is as volatile about this as he is. It’s certainly not costing Pink Floyd royalties.”

Roger Waters often referred to his bandmates as "toxic," a term that adds a personal dimension to the dispute. Albert Brooks concludes by saying, “I’d say it’s much ado about very little.”