I don't get it

When somebody releases a song that contains a bassline, or a guitar riff, or a synth arrangement that is taken from another song, people just hate that and go mad all over it..

I think stealing from other artists is the second best thing an artist can do after creating something authentic and pure, it shows how smart he can get in the studio, re-working the arrangement, and making it even better.

I'm brining trouble with me saying that, but its the truth, every great artist stole at least one thing from his peer or his influence... that's how it goes, when somebody say "Im influenced by that artist" it doesn't mean he listens to that artists records and that's it I'm influenced... heck, I bet everybody tries to steal a bassline trick, or hijack a vocal trick...

What do you think?

[Edited 3/20/14 12:09pm]

I love a good rip. Chic's "Good Times" is one of the biggest rips, and most ripped-off song, of all times. If the artist has skills we wouldn't know of the rip.