Angels co-writer sues Robbie Williams after claiming he received just £7,500 for his contribution to one of the UK’s most iconic pop songs. Ray Heffernan, who says he first wrote the song in 1996, alleges he was never compensated fairly despite the global success of Angels.
Heffernan met Robbie Williams in Dublin and shared a demo of the song. Before its release, he signed away his rights for £7,500 and was not credited as a co-writer. Despite Angels becoming a worldwide hit with millions in streams, covers by artists like Josh Groban, and an Ivor Novello Award in 1999 Heffernan insists Williams never publicly acknowledged his authorship.
This lawsuit opens the door to discussions about music industry fairness, especially around songwriting royalties and credits. If Heffernan succeeds, it could set a precedent, especially in light of new EU copyright protections that support creators seeking retroactive compensation.
What People Are Saying
- Heffernan: “It’s not about the money—it’s about acknowledgment.” He says he holds no regrets, living a peaceful life in Italy teaching songwriting and languages.
- Williams reportedly called Heffernan a “fantasist” a label that deeply hurt Heffernan and added to his sense of being overlooked.
No official response has come from Robbie Williams yet. But this case could force music publishers to reassess how they handle credits and royalties particularly for older contracts made under less-than-transparent terms.
