Legal Question in Entertainment Law in New York

Re: Music for commercial use

You obviously don't get to use non-public domain music for profit without paying the rightful holder of rights in that music. But getting the right to use other's music is often a sound business decision.

Re: Music for commercial use

You can't use music (unless it's in the public domain) unless you get consent from the copyright owners. This would include the music publishers of the sond(s) and any owner of an actual recording you wanted to use. Even if you record the song yourself (i.e., you strum your guitar) you still need consent from the publisher. It's a fairly simple process but long in writing. If you'd like to call for a brief consult free of charge I can give you guidance.