Will adding a guitar riff to a cover song create a derivative work? How about lengthing or shortening sections of the song?

Section 115 of the Copyright Act provides that arrangements are covered under the compulsory license provisions. Compulsory licenses must be filed...

In the USA anyone can sue anyone, anywhere, any time. Whether the suit is a winner is another thing altogether. In exchange for their services...

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Do I register my copyright in my name or my corporation's name?

All the other answers had good information. One more copyright point to consider, and this relates to estate planning. The copyright act provides...

What can happen if I want another screen writer?

My colleagues are correct. We can't advise you about that. But getting your money back may not be the most critical point. I hope your contract...

I don't do it anymore, and none of my lawyer friends in this business do either. The recorded music business is less than half the size it was...

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Entertainment: (Music) As a Producer, when am I considered a "songwriter"?

Ivan is spot on. You can agree on any split that makes all of the writers comfortable. In Nashville, I'm told the custom is the split is equal...

Entertainment: Is it a standard practice for a Music Producer to ask for part of an artists publishing? Where can I find forms?

Its standard practice to ask, but unless you actually helped create the essence of the song--melody and lyrics--you are not really entitled to it. ...

I am aspiring filmmaker who has a script he is seeking financing for. do i need a lawyer?

I believe the answer is yes. My recommendation is that you engage an experienced film attorney who will help you with the three stages of film...

Who has the copyright?

The other answers are good and helpful. But, you may want to consider the value of working this issue out with the company that hired you. If...

We have a song and music video being released what paperwork do we need to complete in case does well and brings in royalties?

Something that's been alluded to but not specifically laid out is that there are three separate copyrights at play here, and they are not the same...