Legal Question in Business Law in Arizona

copyright

A school wants to use the a tv show/movie theme song as a school song and change the lyrics. Is that possible? If so, do they need permission from the writers of the music, lyrics, or both?


Asked on 10/09/08, 4:20 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stephen Nebgen Law Offices of Donald W. Hudspeth

Re: copyright

This is a question that has a few different levels.

First, anyone can make their own version of a song as long as they pay royalties to the original composers, what is called the "mechanical royalty".

Second, regarding changing lyrics - it all depends on the context. For example, if you are using the original song as a means of social commentary or satire, you do not need to get permission.

Please call for further information. I would be more than happy to help you further.

Stephen

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Answered on 10/09/08, 4:39 pm


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