Legal Question in Entertainment Law in California
I'm producing a fictional webseries that has a lot of karaoke happening in the script. What do I need to know involving the rights of the songs we use? Is there anything similar to the license karaoke jockeys use to play at bars/clubs, where I can purchase a license and then use the karaoke track as I see fit for a certain length of time?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Hello,
In order for you to link a song with a dramatic work (e.g. your mini series), you need to learn about "sync" and "performance" licensing". Negotiating a sync license requires you to directly negotiate with the publisher/agent of the author. Negotiating a performance license can be done by contacting correct performing rights organization (i.e. BMI, ASCAP, SESAC) where the song is registered.
I suggest that you visit your local library and hit the music business section and pick up a few titles about the business of music/tv/film and these types of licenses. They'll help you understand the what these types of licenses are and what terms you're likely to negotiate.
Good luck! tma
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