Pondering Updates To Copyright Law In Digital Era
April 02, 2014
With Congress considering copyright reform and digital streaming upending the music business, the U.S. Copyright Office has announced it is studying the effectiveness of the music-licensing system. In an effort to assist Congress, the Copyright Office said it is looking for public input on Copyright Act of 1976 provisions that established government-regulated music-licensing regimes.
SESAC Faces Narrower Claim For Anti-Trust
April 02, 2014
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York refused to throw out part of an antitrust class action brought by television station owners against SESAC, the music licensing organization that represents about 20,000 composers. The ruling came just three months after a magistrate judge in Pennsylvania ruled that radio broadcasters are likely to prevail on similar claims against SESAC.
Cameo Clips
March 31, 2014
Copyright Registration Prerequisite Not Met<br>Teller Prevails in Infringement Suit Over Signature Magic Trick
Use of the Premises
March 26, 2014
Part One discussed drafting clauses for drug stores, snack bars, financial institutions and department stores. Part Two herein addresses food stores, restaurants and supermarkets.
Commemorative Ad Isn't Protected Free Speech
February 28, 2014
Entertainment trade publications often compile special issues and sections that include tribute ads commemorating celebrated individuals and events. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit weighed in on the practice in the context of free speech regarding an ad in a special issue of the consumer imprint <i>Sports Illustrated</i>.
Copyright Concerns In Electronic Music
February 28, 2014
An increasing amount of popular music lacks several traditional markers that courts use to determine whether one song is "substantially similar" to another. But can a sound texture be protected by copyright? This article provides a road map for lawyers and judges alike to navigate substantial similarity in non-traditional forms of music, with a particular focus on electronic music.
No 'Good Cause' Found to Stop Interest Accrual On Value of CKx
February 28, 2014
CKx Inc., the entertainment company that holds the rights to <i>American Idol</i> and other TV programs, and is involved in litigation over its acquisition by Apollo Global Management LLC, cannot order the challenging shareholder to accept the undisputed portion of the purchase price of its stock, the Delaware Court of Chancery ruled.
Ninth Circuit Upholds WA State Publicity Rights Amendment
February 28, 2014
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld the constitutionality of Washington's publicity rights law in a trademark dispute over the rights to singer and guitarist Jimi Hendrix's name and likeness.
