No. George Harrison WAS guilty of plagiarism. Same melody. That's the crime.
This is moving the goal posts, and it's dangerous.
I disagree. The instant - and a few bars thereafter - that I heard the song, I thought, "Marvin Gaye". No doubt in my mind ... Actually, I thought they were sampling Gaye's tune. Didn't realize they actually called that an original idea.
Thicke should have kept his mouth shut. Never ever claim something that is so similar to what you've written inspired you. I've never been inspired by another musician. That's my story and I'm stickin' with it.
