Music Law: What You Need to Know
Music law is a branch of law that deals with the legal aspects of music. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including: (more…)
Music Ordinance Law: What You Need to Know
Music ordinance laws refer to local or municipal regulations governing the playing of music in public spaces. These laws are designed to manage noise levels, ensure public order, and balance the interests of musicians, businesses, and residents. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone looking to host live music events or play music in public areas. (more…)
Music Law in the Digital Age
The digital age has had a profound impact on the music industry. With the advent of file-sharing and streaming services, it has become easier than ever to access and share music.
This rapid digital transformation has presented unprecedented legal challenges for music law and the industry built upon it: (more…)
Music Royalty Laws: What You Need to Know
Let’s be honest, when a great song hits you, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is ‘intellectual property’. You’re feeling the beat, connecting with the lyrics, maybe even getting chills. That’s the magic of music – it’s pure creativity, emotion, and culture rolled into one. But here’s the flip side, especially crucial if you’re in the music business: that incredible track is also a bundle of distinct legal rights. It’s not just one ‘thing’; it’s a fascinating mosaic of lyrics, melody, the actual sound recording, and even how it’s performed.
Understanding who owns what and how they get paid is exactly what music royalty laws are all about, and getting it right can be the difference between a hit song that supports your career and a missed opportunity.
Each element may have different rights holders, such as composers, lyricists, performers, producers, and publishers. Each element may also generate different types of royalties, such as mechanical, performance, synchronization, and master royalties.
Imagine a hit song: the songwriter gets royalties when the song is reproduced, the recording artists get royalties when their specific recording is played, and both songwriters and artists get royalties when the song is performed publicly. It’s like a pie, sliced in different ways!
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