The Musician's Guide to Copyright from Udemy

Welcome to the "Musician's Guide" Series.

This series is pulled directly from the courses I've created for my university position in Music Business. All of these courses are designed for the everyday musician - amateur or professional - who has little or no knowledge on the topic, but wants to master it.

This class is all about Copyright.

100% Answer Rate. Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor. It is ideal for anyone who has had an interest in copyright, or a need to understand copyright. Especially:

Creators: If you are making music, you need to understand your rights.
Consumers: If you are working with music, and want to know if you can copy a song, delete a song, or make a mashup of a song, this course is for you.
Musicians: If you are going to be recorded, you should understand how things will work when the recording is released, and what rights you have to your performance.
Producers: If you are using samples in your tracks, you need to understand copyright.
Curious Minds: Anyone interested in how copyright law works, where it comes from, and where it might be going is invited to be a part of this class.

In this class, we start with the most basic question: How do we define music? Once we have a definition, we start to look at how music is protected with copyright, ways that it isn't, and how to work with it for fun and profit. I'll walk you through every step of the issue and explain the logic behind every concept.

The goal of this class is for you to understand how to make copyright protection work for you.

Software:This course is NOT specific to any DAW program.Genre:The recording studio has no genre - so all are welcome here.

Topics Covered:

Defining Music
Melody and Uniqueness
Originality
"Independent Creation"
Tangibility
Copyright at the Constitution
Rights We Get
Music publishing, and music industry trends
Make money online with your music.
Intellectual Property
Copyright Term
Public Domain
History of Copyright
Work For Hire
Assignments
Licensing
First Sale Doctrine
Film, TV, and Game Licensing
Collaboration
Fair Use
Parody
Trademarks
Performing Group Names (Band Names)
Titles (Song Titles)
Right of Publicity
Contractual Rights
Exclusivity
Right of Refusal
Moral Rights
Creative Commons
CopyLeft
And much, much more.

If you are ready to start making money from your music, and making sure it is protected, this class will start you on that journey. Get started today.

Dr. Allen is a university music professor and is a top-rated Udemy instructor - with nearly 100 courses and over 200,000 students.

In 2017 Star Tribune Business featured him as a "Mover and a Shaker," and he is recognized by the Grammy Foundation for his music education classes.

I guarantee that this course is the most thorough copyright course available ANYWHERE on the market - or your money back (30-day money-back guarantee)

Closed captions have been added to all lessons in this course.

Praise for Courses by Jason Allen:

⇢ "It seems like every little detail is being covered in an extremely simple fashion. The learning process becomes relaxed and allows complex concepts to get absorbed easily. My only regret is not taking this course earlier." - M. Shah

⇢ "Great for everyone without any knowledge so far. I bought all three parts... It's the best investment in leveling up my skills so far.." - Z. Palce

⇢ "Excellent explanations. No more or less than what is needed." - A. Tóth

⇢ "VERY COOL. I've waited for years to see a good video course, now I don't have to wait anymore. Thank You. " - Jeffrey Koury

⇢ "I am learning LOTS. And I really like having the worksheets. " - A. Deichsel

⇢ "The basics explained very clearly - loads of really useful tips. " - J. Pook

⇢ "Jason is really quick and great with questions, always a great resource for an online class. " M. Smith

Students who register for this course will receive ongoing exclusive content and discounts for all future classes in the series.

What's inside

Learning objectives

In this class, students will learn the fundamental principals of copyright.
What makes something original?
Copyright in the constitution
Rights we get
Intellectual property
Things copyright doesn't protect
Copyright term (length)
Public domain
How to get a copyright
Work for hire
First sale doctrine
Licensing contracts for music
Film, tv, and game licensing

Fair use
Parody
Trademarks
How to get a trademark
Performing group names (band names)
Titles - song titles
Right of publicity
Contractual rights
Exclusivity
Moral rights
Creative commons
Show more
Show less

In this class, students will learn the fundamental principals of copyright.
What makes something original?
Copyright in the constitution
Rights we get
Intellectual property
Things copyright doesn't protect
Copyright term (length)
Public domain
How to get a copyright
Work for hire
First sale doctrine
Licensing contracts for music
Film, tv, and game licensing
Fair use
Parody
Trademarks
How to get a trademark
Performing group names (band names)
Titles - song titles
Right of publicity
Contractual rights
Exclusivity
Moral rights
Creative commons
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Welcome to the Musicians Guide to Copyright!

Introduction

What We are Covering Here

Tools You Will Need for This Class

Disclaimer: I Am Not A Lawyer

Disclaimer: Territories

First we need to understand how the law views music before we can define how the law protects it.

Defining Music

Axis of Awesome

Melody and Uniqueness

Originality

Independent Creation

Music is Intangible

Definitions of Music

The Legal Definition of Music

Let's pick this apart into the two components: Copy, and Right.

Rights We Get

Intellectual Property

Now let's drill down a little deeper into what copyright actually does for us.

Term

Public Domain

Why Put Something In The Public Domain?

History of Copyright

How to Get a Copyright

The Work for Hire provision creates some new wrinkles on our understanding of copyright.

What is Work For Hire?

Work For Hire Copyright Term

Once you have a copyright, you have special things you can do with it. These are called "assignments".

What These Are

First Sale Doctrine

Licensing

Film and TV Licensing

Licensing "Houses"

What if you create something in collaboration with another person? How is the copyright owned then?

Collaboration and Copyright

Presumption of Equal Ownership

How a Band Divides Copyright

Perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of copyright is Fair Use. Let's take a close look at it.

The Fair Use Doctrine

Types of Fair Use

The 4 Factors

Example - Class Video

What a Lawyer Will Tell You About Fair Use

Parody is a provision within Fair Use, but it might not be exactly what you think it is.

Misconceptions about Parody

Weird Al Yankovic

Related to copyright is Trademarks. These work a little different, and protect different things.

What is a Mark?

What is a Trade?

How to get a Trademark

My Trademarks

Trademark Symbols

Do you need to trademark your band name? How about your own name?

Uniqueness

Filing

What About My Own Name?

Does Fair Use still apply when we are talking about trademarks? Or is that only for copyright?

Does Fair Use Still Apply?

Example of Fair Use and Trademarks

What about song titles?

Trademark and Titles of Works (Song Titles)

Similar to trademark is the Right of Publicity. This is kind of a fun one to talk about.

What is Right of Publicity

Tom Waits Example

Bette Midler Example

Frank Zappa Example

Protections

What are your contractual rights?

Your Contractual Rights

This is a term that we use to set limits on what we will allow within the scope of a copyright use agreement.

Selling a Beat

Territory

Product Or Service

Duration

Another important concept is Right of First Refusal.

Right of First Refusal

These are a little different than you might think, but important nonetheless.

Moral Rights

Let's talk about this "grey" area in between copyright and public domain.

What is CopyLeft?

Core Principals

Get Creative Video

The C and CC

The Creative Commons Licenses

Databases of Works

Some goodies to play with.

Stems to Remix!

That's it for now! Let me leave you with a few more things...

What Comes Next?

Thanks for Watching!

Bonus Lecture

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores music publishing and music industry trends, which are essential for musicians looking to navigate the business side of their careers

Covers licensing for film, TV, and games, which is useful for musicians aiming to expand their reach into visual media

Discusses trademarks and performing group names, which is helpful for musicians seeking to protect their brand and identity

Examines the First Sale Doctrine, which is important for understanding the limitations and flexibilities of copyright law

Includes discussion of Creative Commons and Copyleft, which are alternative licensing models that musicians may find useful

Requires no specific DAW software, making it accessible to musicians regardless of their preferred production tools

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Musician's Guide to Copyright with these activities:

Review Basic Music Theory

Show steps

Strengthen your understanding of music theory to better grasp the concepts of originality and melody uniqueness discussed in the course.

Browse courses on Music Theory

Show steps

Review scales and chord progressions.
Practice identifying intervals and rhythms.
Analyze simple song structures.

Read 'All You Need to Know About the Music Business' by Donald Passman

Show steps

Gain a broader understanding of the music industry and the role of copyright within it.

View All You Need to Know About the Music Business:... on Amazon

Show steps

Read the sections on copyright and publishing.
Take notes on key concepts and legal terms.
Reflect on how these concepts apply to your own music.

Explore 'Copyright Law for Musicians' by Stephen Fishman

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of copyright law as it specifically relates to musicians and their work.

View The Public Domain on Amazon

Show steps

Read chapters on song ownership and licensing.
Analyze case studies related to music copyright.
Consider how the information applies to your musical endeavors.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Research a Landmark Copyright Case

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of copyright law by researching a significant copyright case related to music and presenting your findings.

Show steps

Select a landmark copyright case related to music.
Research the facts, legal arguments, and outcome of the case.
Prepare a presentation summarizing the case and its implications.

Compose a Song and Document the Copyright Process

Show steps

Apply your knowledge of copyright by creating an original song and documenting each step of the copyright process, from creation to registration.

Show steps

Compose an original song with lyrics and music.
Document the date of creation and any collaborations.
Research the process of registering a copyright.
Prepare and submit the necessary forms.

Create a Licensing Agreement Template

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of licensing by creating a template for a music licensing agreement, including key clauses and considerations.

Show steps

Research common clauses in music licensing agreements.
Draft a template agreement with sections for rights granted, royalties, and term.
Review the template with a legal professional or experienced musician.

Write a Blog Post on Fair Use in Music

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of fair use by writing a blog post explaining the concept and providing examples of its application in music.

Show steps

Research the four factors of fair use.
Find examples of fair use in music, such as parody or educational use.
Write a blog post explaining fair use and providing examples.

Career center

Learners who complete The Musician's Guide to Copyright will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Music Publisher

A music publisher manages the copyrights of musical compositions, ensuring that songwriters and composers receive royalties for their work. This role involves licensing songs, collecting royalties, and protecting intellectual property. This course on copyright provides an essential understanding of the legal framework for music publishing, covering topics such as rights, licensing, and fair use. A deep understanding of topics such as intellectual property and the history of copyright, as also taught in this course, helps aspiring music publishers handle the complexities of music ownership and distribution.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Publisher

Music Licensing Specialist

A music licensing specialist secures permissions for the use of music in various media like film, television, games, and advertising. Crucially, this position requires a precise understanding of copyright law. This course is ideal for this role as it covers film, TV, and game licensing in detail, as well as essential concepts such as work for hire, assignments, and the first sale doctrine. This course is designed to help those who want a deep understanding of copyright so they can make informed decisions about the use of music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Licensing Specialist

A copyright administrator manages the details of music copyrights for artists, labels, or publishing companies. Daily tasks might include registering copyrights, tracking licenses, and processing royalties. This course offers an introduction to the fundamental principles of copyright, and is especially useful in this field for understanding the mechanics of copyright, licensing, and intellectual property. This course is explicitly designed for those with an interest in understanding copyright, and can serve as a launching pad for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Copyright Administrator

Songwriter

A songwriter creates original music and lyrics. A songwriter must know how to protect their work. This class is ideal for songwriters who need to understand their rights regarding their work. This course covers essential topics like originality, copyright in the constitution, intellectual property, and more. This class is designed to help you understand how to make copyright work for you and your songs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Songwriter

Entertainment Lawyer

An entertainment lawyer advises clients in the music industry, addressing various legal issues including copyright, contract negotiation, and intellectual property. This career typically requires an advanced degree. The concepts in this course, such as the history of copyright, intellectual property, and licensing, are foundational for the work of an entertainment lawyer. This course addresses these, and can help a lawyer with a specialized area of expertise for musicians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Entertainment Lawyer

Music Producer

A music producer oversees the creation of recordings, often using samples, loops, and other existing musical material. This course will help producers understand how sampling works within the context of copyright, as well as covering topics such as licensing and work for hire. This class offers an introduction to many concepts that every music producer should be aware of. If you're a music producer, this course will be an important step in ensuring that your work is protected and legally sound.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer

Music Supervisor

A music supervisor selects and secures music for films, television shows, and games. This position requires a deep understanding of copyright and licensing. This course can be helpful for a music supervisor because it includes specific information about licensing for film, television, and games. It also explores topics such as fair use and parody, equipping one with the knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of music rights.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Supervisor

Artist Manager

An artist manager guides and advises musicians on their careers. The role requires a strong understanding of the music industry, including copyright and licensing. This course goes over licensing contracts for music, and also covers topics such as intellectual property, trademarks, and the right of publicity. This course is great for artist managers who want to understand how to protect their clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Artist Manager

Digital Content Creator

A digital content creator produces online content, which may include the use of music. This role requires an understanding of copyright so creators can ensure they are not infringing on the rights of others. This course offers crucial insights into fair use, licensing, and Creative Commons, which could be particularly useful for digital content creators. Furthermore, it provides a broad understanding of the legal aspects of using music online.

See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Content Creator

Music Educator

A music educator teaches music theory, history, or performance. This role can utilize this course to teach students about the legal aspects of music. This course includes fundamental concepts of copyright, and could be directly useful for educators teaching about the music industry, or the business of music. This course was designed by a university music professor and could be incorporated into university-level music programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Educator

Intellectual Property Paralegal

An intellectual property paralegal assists lawyers with the legal aspects of intellectual property, including copyright and trademarks. This role typically requires an understanding of legal processes and documentation. This course can be helpful as it covers the history of copyright, and touches on trademarks. While a deep dive into the legal process isn't covered here, a foundation in the topics of copyright, work for hire, and licensing as taught in this course, would be helpful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Intellectual Property Paralegal

Record Label Employee

A record label employee works in various capacities at a music label, and understanding copyright is important in many of its different operations. This course introduces concepts like licensing, public domain, and work for hire, which would be useful for a label employee. This course could be a great introduction to the copyright knowledge needed by a label employee.

See salaries and explore the career path for Record Label Employee

Music Journalist

A music journalist writes about music, and may cover legal issues related to music like copyright disputes. A music journalist may benefit from taking this course as it provides a robust understanding of the foundations of copyright law as it relates to music, and offers a good look at many relevant topics. This course is designed for those who have an interest in copyright, a group that will often intersect with those who wish to write about music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Journalist

Archivist

An archivist preserves and manages historical records and documents. This course can be useful as an archivist may need to catalog and understand the copyright status of various materials, including musical recordings. This course provides a good introduction to the history of copyright, and also covers related concepts like public domain. These will be valuable perspectives for the work of an archivist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist

Radio Host

A radio host plays music and interviews artists. This role can benefit from an understanding of copyright, especially when dealing with music licenses and fair use policies. This course covers licensing, fair use, and the first sale doctrine. Though the course is not specific to radio, the principles of copyright covered in this course are relevant to the use of music in a radio setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Radio Host

The Musician's Guide to Copyright

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What's inside

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Syllabus

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