Playing Covers

  • Thread starter Thread starter NYMorningstar
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NYMorningstar

Recording Modus Operandi
Does anyone know the rules for playing cover songs live? Is it legal? What about recording the covers you play, is that legal? If not is there a legal way to do either?
 
I believe, over here in Belgium it is legal, as long as you nicely fill in the paper that says which songs you played for the organization that collects and distributes the copyrights...

Recording them is legal anyways. Distributing a disc containing the songs is illegal, unless you filled in the right papers, and maybe for this you even need permission... I don't know.
 
If you're playing in a club or restaurant, their entertainment license usually covers that. As for recording covers, if you plan to sell product you will need to obtain the rights to record the stuff from the publisher/copyright owner.

Bob
 
What if you are playing in like an outdoor concert type set up. Is it still ok to play covers like you're saying it is in a club Bob?
 
I am not sure about that, but I know someone who would know. I'll send him a private message and ask him to check out this thread. Keep you posted.

Bob
 
Hey NY,

Bob was absolutely right about the entertainment license for the club, In an outdoor type event I would ASSUME that the promoter of the event has obtained the necessary license, BUT I would check with him/her

The chances of a major artist coming after you for playing a cover is slim & none unless you are making mucho, mucho denero. Actually, most artists are for covers because its free promotion of their music and gains them fans.....
 
but from a ridiculously honest point of view, can you legally sell a cd of covers?

and does anyone know how long until a song falls into public domain?
 
thanks, Tom

that's exactly what i was looking for.

--tim
 
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