Can I host this mix online ? That is a frequent question I am asked
by DJ’s and store owners alike. People seeking to put copies of music
online may wrongly conclude that physical ownership of music gives them
that right. You may think you have the right to place digitally
recorded music online but be sure first as the consequences can be
dire.The consequences of not obeying copyright law can range
from minor to major. If you are caught you will most likely have your
website shutdown immediately upon discovery. Further action could
include law suits and harrasment by the company owning the license to
the works you placed online. Ownership of a record does not
imply any license to distribute a record in any way. By placing a copy
of a song online you are distributing it. Even the simple act of
playing a record in a club is a form of distribution and as such the
artist is entitled to fee’s. Hosting a mix online requires that you pay
these same fee’s to the artist as well.Little Guy Copyright Law”I
am a little guy so they won’t bother me”. This statement is the
response I often hear from people posing the first question. This shows
a serious lack of understanding of copyright law. The smaller
business is more likely to be a target. Even if your not making
any money at all you are at risk. This is because the laws governing
copyright online are new and as such need precedent set. It is easier
for someone looking to enforce copyright law to prosecute a smaller,
rather than larger, business. Since this is the case it will
be easier for them to begin to set a precedent with the smaller
business first. Defeating several small operators could help them build
a case against someone more likely to be able to pay damages. So
beware if this if you’re sole defense is your a little guy.So how can I play my mix online ?The
most interesting and affordable one is to get a license from the
American Society of Composers and Performers (ASCAP) . With a license
you can play anything you like provided they represent the artists you
play. Depending on what you are doing a license to play the
ASCAP’s extensive library for as little as $250 ( American Dollars ) a
year. This license would even allow you to set up an online radio
station. The author is not a lawyer and this article should
not be taken as legal advice. Should you require legal advice please
seek a licensed attorney.More Information:ASCAPCopyright Law information from the US Copyright OfficeMore Copyright Law information Related On Site ArticlesCanadian Filesharing Appeal