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Music Copyright Question
What is the easiest route to take if I wish to use a popular rock song in a highlight package but do so legally? What it the best way to get permission, do I go straight to the record label? or is there another option? Any insight on the subject would be greatly appreciated.
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3 Replies
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Different bands do it differently, but most I’ve come across deal through the distributing label. That said, copyright can be a nightmare — there’s whoever wrote the lyrics, whoever performed it, the person who holds the license, and if it’s a cover song, then watch out…..
If the song you’re considering really is “popular” it’s probably going to cost A LOT. Most people find it more cost-effective to hire a composer to write a similar-but-not-close-enough-to-get-sued version. So that might be an option for you….
Oh, and I should mention that I’m not a lawyer and don’t understand anything, so please don’t come after me when the lawsuit comes… 🙂 Good luck!
Ben Unguren
Motion Graphics & Editing
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Hi David,
My answer would be, if it’s popular, as in currently on the charts, forget about it… You will have to reach an agreement with both the music publisher and record label. I hope you are retired:-)
That being said, you it’s non profit, or for a good cause, or a big budget piece (I mean where you can afford $20,000.00 in rights), there’s always a chance you might get a deal. Again, you have to find out who both the music publisher and record label are for the particular track and reach out to them.
Vince Becquiot
Kaptis Studios
San Francisco – Bay Area -
Mayby you could find some production music that resemble the song you are looking for. Prices are certainly more reasonable that way. E.g. Universal:
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