Music Law

The Symbolic Transformation: Prince’s Name Change and Its Impact on His Music Legacy

The Context of the Name Change In the early 1990s, the artist known as Prince found himself embroiled in a complex legal dispute with Warner Bros Records, a pivotal moment in his career that would ultimately lead to a profound transformation in his identity. The contention revolved around his music rights, where Prince sought to […]

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The Silence of Copyright: John Cage and the Lawsuit Over Silence

The Legacy of John Cage and 4’33” John Cage, an influential figure in the realm of contemporary music, left an indelible mark through his iconic composition, 4’33”. Premiered in 1952, this avant-garde piece consists of three movements totaling four minutes and thirty-three seconds of silence, challenging traditional notions of music and performance. Cage encouraged listeners

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Common Misconceptions About Music Ownership Every Composer Should Know

Understanding Music Ownership: The Basics Music ownership is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various legal rights associated with the creation and distribution of musical works. At its core, music ownership is primarily concerned with copyright, which protects the original expression of ideas in sound. When a composer creates a piece of music, they automatically hold

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The Harsh Truth: Gig Income vs. Streaming Income for Musicians

Understanding Gig Income Gig income represents a critical revenue stream for musicians, encompassing earnings derived from live performances. These earnings can significantly vary based on multiple factors including the artist’s popularity, location, venue size, and audience turnout. On average, emerging artists can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per show, with

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Essential Legal Advice for Musicians: Understanding Contracts and Rights

Essential Legal Advice for Musicians: Understanding Contracts and Rights

The Importance of Contracts in the Music Industry In the music industry, contracts serve as fundamental tools for musicians, providing a legal framework that governs their professional relationships. By formalizing agreements, contracts help to establish clear expectations, outline rights and responsibilities, and offer legal protection. Understanding the various types of contracts musicians may encounter is

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Understanding Copyright and Royalties for Music Composers

Understanding Copyright and Royalties for Music Composers

What is Copyright in Music Composition? Copyright in music composition refers to the legal protection granted to the original works created by composers. This protection is vital as it safeguards the unique expression of musical ideas from unauthorized use. When a composer creates a piece of music, copyright automatically attaches to the work, providing certain

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