Bellamy Brothers Feel ‘Ripped Off’ by Britney Spears’ ‘Hold It Against Me’

When you look at the career path for David and Howard Bellamy -- known as the Bellamy Brothers -- one song stands out as the pivotal point that took their music to the next level.

“Back in 1979, I wrote a little song called ‘If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me,’” recalls David Bellamy. “That little song went No. 1 and has since become one of the defining songs of our career."

Earlier this week, the Bellamy Brothers have noticed a spike on YouTube when the video for 'If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me' was up 270,000 views. Turns out it's no coincidence. Pop icon Britney Spears' new single 'Hold It Against Me' hit radio Tuesday (Jan. 11) -- and it holds much similarity to the Bellamy Brothers' hit.

"If you listen to the lyrics of Britney Spears’ new single, ‘Hold It Against Me,’ you’ll find some major similarities," David Bellamy says. "Howard and I have no personal beef with Britney. She’s a talented gal, but professionally [and] in all honesty, we feel completely ripped off. Where's the originality?"

"Hey Brit," adds Howard Bellamy, "If I said you ripped off our song, would you hold it against me? Thanks."

This May, the Bellamy Brothers are celebrating 35 years since the release of their first No. 1 hit, 'Let Your Love Flow.' In conjunction with the anniversary, they will release 'Bellamy Brothers: Greatest Hits Volume 1' this spring.

Hear both songs below, and let us know if you think that they sound similar.

Watch the Bellamy Brothers 'If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me' Video