Legal Question in Intellectual Property in California

Quoting song lyrics in a novel

I am writing a novel in which I would like to quote various song lyrics, while also mentioning the song writer, of course. These song lyrics will simply be part of conversations, as if people were having a discussion about what type of music they like, or singing along with the radio in their car, or what not. Would I have to get special permission to do this? I only intend to quote probably not more than 3 or 4 lines of each song. What is the process I would have to go through to obtain permission if it is necessary?


Asked on 12/19/02, 7:52 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Amy Ghosh Law Offices of Amy Ghosh

Re: Quoting song lyrics in a novel

You need to get clearence from ASCAP and/or BMI

Read more
Answered on 12/19/02, 9:16 pm
Keith E. Cooper Keith E. Cooper, Esq.

Re: Quoting song lyrics in a novel

Yes, you would need to get clearance from the publisher of each song. The publisher's name would appear on the sheet music or in the fine print on a CD cover.

If your novel is published, your publisher's legal department will probably take care of any clearances and would edit out any lyrics for which it can not obtain clearance.

Read more
Answered on 12/23/02, 5:02 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Intellectual Property questions and answers in California