"Bitter Sweet Symphony" by The Verve is a iconic song with an interesting history:
Sampling Controversy: The orchestral arrangement in "Bitter Sweet Symphony" heavily samples an orchestral version of The Rolling Stones' song "The Last Time." The Verve had obtained permission to use a small portion of the sample, but controversy arose over the extent of the use, leading to legal battles.
Rights Dispute: Despite having obtained permission, The Verve ended up forfeiting most of the royalties for "Bitter Sweet Symphony" to The Rolling Stones' former manager, Allen Klein, due to the dispute over the sample. This led to a change in the credits for the song.
Chart Success: Despite the legal issues, the song became a massive hit. It reached high positions on various charts worldwide and is considered one of the defining tracks of the Britpop era in the late '90s.
Grammy Nomination: "Bitter Sweet Symphony" received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Song in 1999, showcasing its critical acclaim and influence on the music scene.
Ashcroft's Lyrics: Richard Ashcroft, the lead singer and lyricist, wrote the lyrics which reflect themes of life's struggles and the bittersweet nature of success. The song's emotive lyrics complement the sweeping orchestral arrangement.
Cultural Impact: The song has been extensively used in various films, TV shows, and commercials, contributing to its lasting impact on popular culture.
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" is not only a musical masterpiece but also a song with a complex history that adds to its intrigue.