Robin Thicke Says He and Pharrell Would Never Steal

Robin Thicke's career and reputation took a major hit after a judge ordered he and Pharrell to pay the Gaye estate $7.3 million for "Blurred Lines" plagiarism. While Thicke and Pharrell's lawyers appeal the ruling, the singer, who has been keeping a relatively low profile after being everywhere riding the wave of "Blurred Lines," sat down with The New York Times for a Q+A  to talk about the lawsuit and much more.

Below are a few excerpts from the interview, including Thicke claiming that he would "never steal" and his response to the criticism his music has received for alleged cultural appropriation.

What was your reaction when you heard the verdict in the “Blurred Lines” case?

I was surprised. Very surprised. Obviously, that’s why we’re appealing. I know the difference between inspiration and theft. I’m constantly inspired, but I would never steal. And neither would Pharrell.

You were criticized for appropriation, for being a white artist who plays black musical styles. What was your reaction to that critique?

When “Blurred Lines” first exploded, I had this chip on my shoulder: “Hey, wait a second! I’ve been doing this for 15 years, guys!” And then, you know, I started to force it a little bit. The ego is a very dangerous place. I was supposed to be living the dream, and yet I was in a nightmare because of a crumbling marriage. I had finally reached the pinnacle of success — on paper, I had it all. But I wasn’t happy. And so you start grasping for something else to make you happy. Drugs and alcohol became a way for me to cope. And then you start saying things in interviews, desperate for a little extra attention. And then it becomes a sympathy tour.

Thicke also dives into his drug and alcohol abuse during the "Blurred Lines" press run, current artists paying royalties and crediting older artists for songs that sound similar and his divorce that left him emotionally destroyed. The full interview can be read here.