Lemonheads’ Evan Dando sues GM over song

Claims the automaker copied ‘It’s a Shame About Ray’ for its ads

	Evan Dando claims GM violated the copyright on the Lemonheads song "It's a Shame About Ray."
Matt Sayles / AP file

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updated 8:30 p.m. ET June 5, 2009

LOS ANGELES - Lemonheads founder Evan Dando is suing General Motors, saying the auto giant copied one of his songs for an ad.

Dando sued GM and advertising and licensing firms in federal court Thursday, claiming the automaker violated his copyright on The Lemonheads song “It’s a Shame About Ray.” The complaint alleges the song was re-recorded and included in a 2008 TV campaign for Chevrolets and Buicks.

Dando seeks damages and a portion of profits from the campaign.

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GM, which sought federal bankruptcy protection this week, and the licensing firm Asche & Spencer Music, Inc. did not immediately respond to calls Friday.

The Lemonheads had several hits in the 1990s, including “Into Your Arms” and a remake of “Mrs. Robinson.”