Writer Says Jefferson Airplane Swiped Tune

CHICAGO (CN) – A songwriter claims Jefferson Airplane stole his song and released an unauthorized copy on their 2007 album, “Sweeping Up the Spotlight: Live at Fillmore East 1969.” In his federal complaint, Syl Johnson says he co-wrote and recorded the song “Dresses Too Short” in 1968, and the Airplane’s recent album includes the song “You Wear Your Dresses Too Short,” from the 1969 concert.     Johnson claims that the Airplane knew he had written the song, but profited from it and credited defendant band member Marty Balin as sole songwriter.     Johnson says he registered a copyright for “Dresses Too Short” in 2009. He claims Balin fraudulently received a copyright for “You Wear Your Dresses Too Short” in 1992, and has received royalties from it.     Johnson sued Jefferson Airplane Inc., Marty Balin, Sony BMG Music Entertainment, BMG Music and Legacy Recordings.     He seeks disgorgement, reassignment of copyright, royalties, penalties and an injunction. He is represented by Douglas Morrison with Morrison Mix.

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