Expert insights. Personalized for you.
Music Music THR OnlineThe 1977 song is still actively licensed, according to the complaint, and has recently appeared in everything from 'The Simpsons' to Toyota commercials. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
If you’ve wondered how composers and songwriters get noticed, and have their music licensed for use in movies, on television, in video games, and other media, you’re not alone. They asked a group of folks from the Guild of Music Supervisors to give their advice. Check out what they said here: Music Supervisors Sound Off on Getting Your Music into Film/TV. The post How to get your music into film, TV, Video Games, etc. MORE
Business Music Tech Spotify THR Weekly Magazine InternationalThe Swedish streaming giant plots world domination, but it must navigate the obstacles that result from cutting corners in its quest for rapid growth. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
Music Music Business THR OnlineHe's no longer the CEO of Kemosabe Records and the company asserts he no longer has authority to act on its behalf. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
Despite that oddity, it’s refreshing to see the leaders of the music industry come together to form the Music Artists Coalition as a counterbalance to Big Tech and its counterpart, the MIC Coalition. Irving Azoff has demonstrated that he’s one of the only managers in the music business who is willing to take on these people in court and we applaud him for it. We have entered an era where Big Tech controls the purse strings for the Mechanical Licensing Collective. MORE
In this video, I answer a question about using music in the theatre. This question and answer brought to you by: Asked & Answered – Music in theatre is a post from: Law Offices of Gordon P. This is intended as general information only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It is not a substitute for a private, independent consultation with an attorney selected to advise you after a full investigation of the facts and law relevant to your matter. MORE
The 2nd Draft of Music Modernization Act 3/22/18 was released publicly today. The first thing I noticed is that the tragic demonstration of the raw lobbying power of Big Tech: The litigation reach back safe harbor seems to still be in there which is designed to deny due process and other Constitutional protections to songwriters whose works are infringed prior to the enactment of the Music Modernization Act. Music Modernization Act MORE
This time it’s about preserving a subsidy for Music Choice’s cable music service. If you still have cable, you’ll probably find Music Choice in the highest numbered channels. Music Choice (like Pandora) gets to take advantage of the statutory license created by the Congress in 1998 for the use of your recordings in “noninteractive” digital services. Three of those preexisting services still exist today: SiriusXM, Musak and Music Choice. MORE
This time it’s about preserving a subsidy for Music Choice’s cable music service. If you still have cable, you’ll probably find Music Choice in the highest numbered channels. Music Choice (like Pandora) gets to take advantage of the statutory license created by the Congress in 1998 for the use of your recordings in “noninteractive” digital services. Three of those preexisting services still exist today: SiriusXM, Musak and Music Choice. MORE
“Spinrilla specializes in ripping off music creators by offering thousands of unlicensed sound recordings for free," says the RIAA. Music Music THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq. MORE
Composer and Music Licensing Agreements for Film, TV, & New Media. This workshop is part of CLA ‘s 4-Part Series, titled “ Music Industry Legal & Business Workshops.&#. This workshop will provide a brief overview of the current film and television music landscape, particularly in an era of shrinking budgets and fragmented audiences. Event: Composer and Music Licensing Agreements for Film, TV, & New Media is a post from: The Law Offices of Gordon P. MORE
The lawsuit centers on revenue from the Disney star's music. Music Television Music THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq. MORE
Music Music Business THR OnlineCash Money may have settled with Lil Wayne, but its legal problems — now Universal's — aren't over. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
TRANSCRIPT: Ben has a question about music rights for a live show he's planning… Hi, I'm attorney Gordon Firemark, and this is Asked and Answered, where I answer common entertainment law questions, to help you take your career and business to the next level. Ben wrote in with this: I am “planning” a musical variety show next year, with a variety of genres – the genres include- Country, Broadway, Gospel, Pop, Patriotic, Opera, Jazz and who knows what else. MORE
The Business Music Business THR OnlineThe satellite radio giant is facing a nightmare lawsuit over its performance of older songs. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
Business Music Business THR OnlineThe Latin superstar alleges he's getting a small fraction of the 50 percent royalty rate he believes is dictated by contract. Expect more lawsuits on this front. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
The music service Inflight claims the label “changed its tune” after permitting use of its songs for years. The Business Music Earshot THR Online THR, Esq. Universal Music Publishing Group Universal Music Group Business read more. MORE
The exec's attorney wants music industry blogger Bob Lefsetz to retract his statements. Music Music THR Online nsfsread more. THR, Esq. MORE
Music Music THR Online"This matter is the very epitome of litigation paranoia." read more. THR, Esq. MORE
Scott asks a tricky question about music rights for video of a stage production… Hi, I’m attorney Gordon Firemark, and this is Asked and Answered, where I answer your entertainment law questions, to help you take your career and business to the next level. We tour internationally and in every contract the producer or venue pays the ASCAP or other performing rights society fee for the music that is used in our performances. Use the music. AUDIO: TRANSCRIPT: [link]. MORE
What are the rules for using music (even your own music) in a podcast. So, one of the most common questions that comes up when I talk to podcasters about their legal obligations and rights, has to do with music. Sometimes, they want to use pre-existing music, and don't understand why it's so hard or impossible. And sometimes, they're actually creating their own music, and still have concerns and questions. VIDEO: [link]. MORE
In the case of Austin in particular, the city has long branded itself as the “Live Music Capitol of the World”. It is well to consider the larger impact on the wider music business if venues start getting shut down, tours cancelled and festivals sidelined. Digital music services would have us believe that the artist data they can generate helps with routing tours and that benefit makes up for low royalties. Pandemic Force majeure Music business insurance MORE
I am often consulted by film and stage producers who tell me they’re ready to start work on raising the financing for their films/ plays/ musicals, or what-have-you, but often as not, as we get to work, it becomes clear that they’re not as ready as they think. You’re selling not just an opportunity to invest in any old business… You’re selling the chance to be a part of a film, play, musical or whatever. MORE
Music Music THR OnlineTrial was originally set to begin Oct. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
Here’s an update on the bizarre saga of Apple Music and The MLC. And remember that the notice from Apple includes this language: [W]e intend to move our licensing and royalty administration for Apple Music to the MLC starting from January 1, 2021. MORE
Jamie wrote in with an interesting question about music licensing in theatre… Hi, I am Gordon Firemark and this is asked and answered, where I take your entertainment law questions so you can get your career and business in entertainment to the next level. Here’s Jamie’s question: “I am researching the licensing needed for rehearsals, as well as recording live performances, for a children’s musical theater group, set up as an LLC, with monthly fees. MORE
I'll be outlining the various ways in which music can be used by podcasters, where the music may come from, and the complex web of copyright and licensing issues that have historically made using commercial music both difficult and costly. Thursday afternoon, I'll be presenting my talk at Podcast Movement in Orlando. MORE
Music Music THR OnlineThe labels say the fitness app is an unlicensed interactive streaming service. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
The lawsuit also claims a contract breach in the way Tony Bennett's music was used on PBS and an Earth, Wind & Fire song for the the 2012 film "The Intouchables." Music Music Business THR Online Laborread more. THR, Esq. MORE
The sports network sued BMI in February 2016, claiming that licensing demands for broadcasting ambient music were unreasonable. The Business Music Business THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq. MORE
If you live outside of New York, Nashville or Los Angeles, how much do you really know about the needs of your local music community? (And, Even if you live in one of those “centers” ) Artists, songwriters, producers, live music–and all of the folks who make up our local business and contribute to the local economy. The Austin Music Office has commissioned a real census to get a meaningful handle on who contributes to the $1.6 MORE
Title I of the Music Modernization Act is clear about a few things, one of which is the creation of the “musical works database.” ” That database is for a specific purpose-it is to be used by the mechanical licensing collective in fulfilling its statutory mandate to “collect and distribute royalties from digital music providers for covered activities” under the new blanket license. Who Can Get a Copy of the Entire Musical Works Database? MORE
Dueling antitrust claims could shake the music industry. Music Music THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq. MORE
This Friday, I’ll be presenting a webinar on music rights and licensing in theatre, Admission is free, and space is limited to 50 attendees. I’ll explore the various ways in which music is used in theatrical entertainment, from traditional- and jukebox musicals, to incidental, scene-change music, to concert and cabaret performance. MORE
Hatch-Bob Goodlatte Music Modernization Act and the significant benefits this new legislation is expected to deliver to music publishers and songwriters, we intend to move our licensing and royalty administration for Apple Music to the MLC starting from January 1, 2021. MORE
In this video, Entertainment Lawyer Gordon Firemark answers a question about the rights to copy sheet music for use in a school setting. It deals with the rights to copy sheet music for use in a school setting. Q: Phil is a school vocal music instructor, who asks: If I purchase 30 pieces of choral music for use in my classroom, am I allowed to make 30 copies of that music to distribute to students so that they can annotate and edit according to our performance practices? MORE
If you’ll be in Dallas, Texas on November 28, I will be discussing the Music Modernization Act at a luncheon sponsored by the Dallas Bar Association Entertainment & Sports Law Section. The talk will focus mostly on the Music Licensing Collective and Digital Licensee Coordinator in Title I, but will also cover the Wyden Loophole in Title II for pre-72 recordings. Music Modernization Act Speaking in Public MORE
Business Music Tech Business THR OnlineA federal judge concludes that Wolfgang's Vault lacked requisite license to stream hundreds of iconic songs. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
Music Music Business THR OnlineEighty albums of recorded Nina Simone performances are said in new court papers to have been put on iTunes and other digital venues without authorization. read more. THR, Esq. MORE
One of our friends created this survey to get some information on how you hear about, listen to and enjoy music. Given that Taylor Swift has focused the world’s attention on this issue, we thought it would be a good time to post this survey. Click here to take the survey on Survey Monkey MORE
Chris Castle discussion of Eight Mile Style lawsuit against Spotify under Music Modernization Act (driving with dogs series). MTP Podcasts Music Modernization Act Uncategorized Eight Mile Style litigation Reachback Safe HarborEight Mile Style v. Spotify Complaint. MORE
In this video, Entertainment Lawyer Gordon Firemark answers a question about licensing music on a shoestring. This question and answer brought to you by: Asked & Answered – How to license music for low budget film is a post from: Law Offices of Gordon P. Is it wise to get a “Festival only license?” ” Or, should filmmakers get more comprehensive licenses. And, how the licensing request is made. MORE
Music Related Topics Music Technology Policy
DECEMBER 9, 2020
Hatch-Bob Goodlatte Music Modernization Act and the significant benefits this new legislation is expected to deliver to music publishers and songwriters, we intend to move our licensing and royalty administration for Apple Music to the MLC starting from January 1, 2021.
Gordon P. Firemark
AUGUST 13, 2019
I'll be outlining the various ways in which music can be used by podcasters, where the music may come from, and the complex web of copyright and licensing issues that have historically made using commercial music both difficult and costly. Thursday afternoon, I'll be presenting my talk at Podcast Movement in Orlando.
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Gordon P. Firemark
SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
What are the rules for using music (even your own music) in a podcast. So, one of the most common questions that comes up when I talk to podcasters about their legal obligations and rights, has to do with music. Sometimes, they want to use pre-existing music, and don't understand why it's so hard or impossible. And sometimes, they're actually creating their own music, and still have concerns and questions. VIDEO: [link].
Music Technology Policy
DECEMBER 11, 2020
Here’s an update on the bizarre saga of Apple Music and The MLC. And remember that the notice from Apple includes this language: [W]e intend to move our licensing and royalty administration for Apple Music to the MLC starting from January 1, 2021.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
AUGUST 2, 2017
The lawsuit centers on revenue from the Disney star's music. Music Television Music THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
FEBRUARY 6, 2018
The exec's attorney wants music industry blogger Bob Lefsetz to retract his statements. Music Music THR Online nsfsread more. THR, Esq.
Gordon P. Firemark
NOVEMBER 3, 2016
Scott asks a tricky question about music rights for video of a stage production… Hi, I’m attorney Gordon Firemark, and this is Asked and Answered, where I answer your entertainment law questions, to help you take your career and business to the next level. We tour internationally and in every contract the producer or venue pays the ASCAP or other performing rights society fee for the music that is used in our performances. Use the music. AUDIO: TRANSCRIPT: [link].
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
JULY 10, 2018
Music Music Business THR OnlineCash Money may have settled with Lil Wayne, but its legal problems — now Universal's — aren't over. read more. THR, Esq.
Music Technology Policy
AUGUST 30, 2019
Chris Castle discussion of Eight Mile Style lawsuit against Spotify under Music Modernization Act (driving with dogs series). MTP Podcasts Music Modernization Act Uncategorized Eight Mile Style litigation Reachback Safe HarborEight Mile Style v. Spotify Complaint.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
DECEMBER 6, 2016
Dueling antitrust claims could shake the music industry. Music Music THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq.
Gordon P. Firemark
SEPTEMBER 18, 2015
Jamie wrote in with an interesting question about music licensing in theatre… Hi, I am Gordon Firemark and this is asked and answered, where I take your entertainment law questions so you can get your career and business in entertainment to the next level. Here’s Jamie’s question: “I am researching the licensing needed for rehearsals, as well as recording live performances, for a children’s musical theater group, set up as an LLC, with monthly fees.
Gordon P. Firemark
MARCH 7, 2014
In this video, Entertainment Lawyer Gordon Firemark answers a question about the rights to copy sheet music for use in a school setting. It deals with the rights to copy sheet music for use in a school setting. Q: Phil is a school vocal music instructor, who asks: If I purchase 30 pieces of choral music for use in my classroom, am I allowed to make 30 copies of that music to distribute to students so that they can annotate and edit according to our performance practices?
Gordon P. Firemark
AUGUST 30, 2013
In this video, I answer a question about using music in the theatre. This question and answer brought to you by: Asked & Answered – Music in theatre is a post from: Law Offices of Gordon P. This is intended as general information only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It is not a substitute for a private, independent consultation with an attorney selected to advise you after a full investigation of the facts and law relevant to your matter.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
JANUARY 26, 2018
Business Music Tech Spotify THR Weekly Magazine InternationalThe Swedish streaming giant plots world domination, but it must navigate the obstacles that result from cutting corners in its quest for rapid growth. read more. THR, Esq.
Music Technology Policy
MARCH 23, 2018
The 2nd Draft of Music Modernization Act 3/22/18 was released publicly today. The first thing I noticed is that the tragic demonstration of the raw lobbying power of Big Tech: The litigation reach back safe harbor seems to still be in there which is designed to deny due process and other Constitutional protections to songwriters whose works are infringed prior to the enactment of the Music Modernization Act. Music Modernization Act
Music Technology Policy
MAY 27, 2018
This time it’s about preserving a subsidy for Music Choice’s cable music service. If you still have cable, you’ll probably find Music Choice in the highest numbered channels. Music Choice (like Pandora) gets to take advantage of the statutory license created by the Congress in 1998 for the use of your recordings in “noninteractive” digital services. Three of those preexisting services still exist today: SiriusXM, Musak and Music Choice.
Music Technology Policy
MARCH 18, 2020
In the case of Austin in particular, the city has long branded itself as the “Live Music Capitol of the World”. It is well to consider the larger impact on the wider music business if venues start getting shut down, tours cancelled and festivals sidelined. Digital music services would have us believe that the artist data they can generate helps with routing tours and that benefit makes up for low royalties. Pandemic Force majeure Music business insurance
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
OCTOBER 7, 2016
Music Music THR OnlineTrial was originally set to begin Oct. read more. THR, Esq.
Gordon P. Firemark
DECEMBER 6, 2013
In this video, Entertainment Lawyer Gordon Firemark answers a question about licensing music on a shoestring. This question and answer brought to you by: Asked & Answered – How to license music for low budget film is a post from: Law Offices of Gordon P. Is it wise to get a “Festival only license?” ” Or, should filmmakers get more comprehensive licenses. And, how the licensing request is made.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
FEBRUARY 9, 2018
Music Music THR Online nsfsLefsetz's piece was essentially a series of questions," writes Power Lawyer Howard King. Maybe your client answered them and didn't like the answers." read more. THR, Esq.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
JANUARY 31, 2017
The sports network sued BMI in February 2016, claiming that licensing demands for broadcasting ambient music were unreasonable. The Business Music Business THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq.
Music Technology Policy
SEPTEMBER 30, 2014
If you live outside of New York, Nashville or Los Angeles, how much do you really know about the needs of your local music community? (And, Even if you live in one of those “centers” ) Artists, songwriters, producers, live music–and all of the folks who make up our local business and contribute to the local economy. The Austin Music Office has commissioned a real census to get a meaningful handle on who contributes to the $1.6
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
SEPTEMBER 27, 2017
Music Music THR Online"This matter is the very epitome of litigation paranoia." read more. THR, Esq.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
NOVEMBER 6, 2017
Music Music THR OnlineThe 1977 song is still actively licensed, according to the complaint, and has recently appeared in everything from 'The Simpsons' to Toyota commercials. read more. THR, Esq.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
APRIL 25, 2017
Music Music Business THR OnlineHe's no longer the CEO of Kemosabe Records and the company asserts he no longer has authority to act on its behalf. read more. THR, Esq.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
MAY 21, 2015
Music Music Business THR OnlineEighty albums of recorded Nina Simone performances are said in new court papers to have been put on iTunes and other digital venues without authorization. read more. THR, Esq.
Music Technology Policy
DECEMBER 11, 2019
Title I of the Music Modernization Act is clear about a few things, one of which is the creation of the “musical works database.” ” That database is for a specific purpose-it is to be used by the mechanical licensing collective in fulfilling its statutory mandate to “collect and distribute royalties from digital music providers for covered activities” under the new blanket license. Who Can Get a Copy of the Entire Musical Works Database?
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
FEBRUARY 3, 2017
“Spinrilla specializes in ripping off music creators by offering thousands of unlicensed sound recordings for free," says the RIAA. Music Music THR Onlineread more. THR, Esq.
Gordon P. Firemark
MARCH 12, 2012
This Friday, I’ll be presenting a webinar on music rights and licensing in theatre, Admission is free, and space is limited to 50 attendees. I’ll explore the various ways in which music is used in theatrical entertainment, from traditional- and jukebox musicals, to incidental, scene-change music, to concert and cabaret performance.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
APRIL 10, 2018
Business Music Tech Business THR OnlineA federal judge concludes that Wolfgang's Vault lacked requisite license to stream hundreds of iconic songs. read more. THR, Esq.
Gordon P. Firemark
FEBRUARY 1, 2018
TRANSCRIPT: Ben has a question about music rights for a live show he's planning… Hi, I'm attorney Gordon Firemark, and this is Asked and Answered, where I answer common entertainment law questions, to help you take your career and business to the next level. Ben wrote in with this: I am “planning” a musical variety show next year, with a variety of genres – the genres include- Country, Broadway, Gospel, Pop, Patriotic, Opera, Jazz and who knows what else.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
JANUARY 24, 2018
Business Music Business THR OnlineThe Latin superstar alleges he's getting a small fraction of the 50 percent royalty rate he believes is dictated by contract. Expect more lawsuits on this front. read more. THR, Esq.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
MARCH 19, 2015
The music service Inflight claims the label “changed its tune” after permitting use of its songs for years. The Business Music Earshot THR Online THR, Esq. Universal Music Publishing Group Universal Music Group Business read more.
Music Technology Policy
NOVEMBER 11, 2018
If you’ll be in Dallas, Texas on November 28, I will be discussing the Music Modernization Act at a luncheon sponsored by the Dallas Bar Association Entertainment & Sports Law Section. The talk will focus mostly on the Music Licensing Collective and Digital Licensee Coordinator in Title I, but will also cover the Wyden Loophole in Title II for pre-72 recordings. Music Modernization Act Speaking in Public
Gordon P. Firemark
JULY 27, 2015
If you’ve wondered how composers and songwriters get noticed, and have their music licensed for use in movies, on television, in video games, and other media, you’re not alone. They asked a group of folks from the Guild of Music Supervisors to give their advice. Check out what they said here: Music Supervisors Sound Off on Getting Your Music into Film/TV. The post How to get your music into film, TV, Video Games, etc.
Music Technology Policy
NOVEMBER 10, 2014
One of our friends created this survey to get some information on how you hear about, listen to and enjoy music. Given that Taylor Swift has focused the world’s attention on this issue, we thought it would be a good time to post this survey. Click here to take the survey on Survey Monkey
Gordon P. Firemark
JANUARY 13, 2012
I am often consulted by film and stage producers who tell me they’re ready to start work on raising the financing for their films/ plays/ musicals, or what-have-you, but often as not, as we get to work, it becomes clear that they’re not as ready as they think. You’re selling not just an opportunity to invest in any old business… You’re selling the chance to be a part of a film, play, musical or whatever.
Gordon P. Firemark
APRIL 11, 2011
Composer and Music Licensing Agreements for Film, TV, & New Media. This workshop is part of CLA ‘s 4-Part Series, titled “ Music Industry Legal & Business Workshops.&#. This workshop will provide a brief overview of the current film and television music landscape, particularly in an era of shrinking budgets and fragmented audiences. Event: Composer and Music Licensing Agreements for Film, TV, & New Media is a post from: The Law Offices of Gordon P.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
MAY 27, 2015
The Business Music Business THR OnlineThe satellite radio giant is facing a nightmare lawsuit over its performance of older songs. read more. THR, Esq.
Music Technology Policy
AUGUST 2, 2019
Despite that oddity, it’s refreshing to see the leaders of the music industry come together to form the Music Artists Coalition as a counterbalance to Big Tech and its counterpart, the MIC Coalition. Irving Azoff has demonstrated that he’s one of the only managers in the music business who is willing to take on these people in court and we applaud him for it. We have entered an era where Big Tech controls the purse strings for the Mechanical Licensing Collective.
Music Technology Policy
MAY 27, 2018
This time it’s about preserving a subsidy for Music Choice’s cable music service. If you still have cable, you’ll probably find Music Choice in the highest numbered channels. Music Choice (like Pandora) gets to take advantage of the statutory license created by the Congress in 1998 for the use of your recordings in “noninteractive” digital services. Three of those preexisting services still exist today: SiriusXM, Musak and Music Choice.
THR, Esq. Entertainment & Media Law Blog
JULY 8, 2015
The lawsuit also claims a contract breach in the way Tony Bennett's music was used on PBS and an Earth, Wind & Fire song for the the 2012 film "The Intouchables." Music Music Business THR Online Laborread more. THR, Esq.
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