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United States · Copyright basicsCopyright Basics
An introduction to copyright ownership, protection, registration, transfers, and duration in the United States.
Music Law Library
Official statutes, treaties, and educational guides for musicians, writers, producers, publishers, labels, and curious listeners.
12 files on the desk
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United States · Songs and recordingsMusical Compositions and Sound Recordings
Explains the separate copyrights covering a song’s music and lyrics and its recorded performance.
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United States · RegistrationCopyright Registration of Musical Compositions
Official registration guidance for music and accompanying lyrics.
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United States · RegistrationCopyright Registration of Sound Recordings
Official guidance concerning recorded performances, producers, deposits, and registration.
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United States · AlbumsGroup Registration of Works on an Album
Requirements for registering eligible musical works or sound recordings released together as an album.
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United States · Adaptation and samplingCopyright in Derivative Works and Compilations
Guidance relevant to arrangements, adaptations, compilations, and other works based on existing material.
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International · International frameworkGuide to WIPO Copyright and Related Rights Treaties
A comprehensive guide to the international treaties governing authors, performers, and phonogram producers.
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International · International frameworkJoining the International Copyright System
An overview of the Berne Convention, WIPO Copyright Treaty, and Performances and Phonograms Treaty.
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European Union · Digital rightsEU Copyright in the Digital Single Market Directive
The European Union directive addressing digital uses, licensing, platforms, and remuneration for creators.
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European Union · Copyright frameworkEU Information Society Copyright Directive
The European framework for reproduction, communication, distribution, exceptions, and technological protection.
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European Union · DurationEU Term of Protection Directive
Rules harmonizing copyright terms for works, musical compositions, performances, and sound recordings.
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United Kingdom · Performer rightsUK Rights in Performances Regulations
United Kingdom regulations concerning performers and persons holding recording rights.