Creating a UVS project using recent music (Copyrights) ???

[screwball2]

I have created quite a few projects and burned to DVD using recent/ish music tracks as background music.
e.g. I recently composed a environmental protest project using Michael Jacksons 'Earthsong' as the backtrack. I would so like to upload for others to view and possibly appreciate - but - am I infringing copyrights? Pretty certain I am. But, if I cannot use available music tracks, do I have to create my own? (I play guitar, but not that good! And DEFINITELY can't sing).
Also if I theoretically wanted to sell a project on the net, e.g. an upcoming project (Brighton UK Gay Pride Rally) that will include current music, where/how do I obtain permission?
Regards
Kevin

[Black Lab]

In short, yes. Anytime you use copyrighted material without the author's consent you are breaking the law. There are a few exceptions, but basically that's it.

If you are dead set on using that song then you would have to seek permission from the Gloved One, and possibly the publishing company. Good luck. He has screwed the Beatles, so I don't see him doing you a favor.

Anyway, there are some very good sources of royalty free music. I personally use Digital Juice. They are a bit pricey, but when they have sales (all the time!) they are a steal. The music is very high quality and once you buy it you can use it for virtually anything.

[DVDDoug]

Also if I theoretically wanted to sell a project on the net, e.g. an upcoming project (Brighton UK Gay Pride Rally) that will include current music

If you want to sell or distribute the video on the Net, you would probably also need the permission of anyone who appears in the video. If you are involved in the orginization of the event, this might be possible. If you are doing it freelance, it might be tough.

I play guitar...

You also need right the perform & record a song, if you didn't compose it yourself.

Sometimes big-picture movie directors can't get the music they want! Some acts want too much money, and others won't "sell out" at any price.

[screwball2]

Thankyou both for the prompt reply. I must admit to being very disheartened by it though. It imposes severe restrictions upon my creations. How on earth then does one find suitable background music - which - in my opinion is an extremely vital part of any production, amateur or pro. But I will investigate digital juice (thanks Black lab). I have just finished building a new computer designed specifically for this purpose using Ulead. So I don't know where to go from here. The music is such an integral part creating mood, linking certain words and phrases with pictures (as all advertising promo agencies will endorse).

[Black Lab]

You are right, the right music is vital to the success of any video production.

I am also involved with the Digital Juice forum. This topic has been discussed quite often. It seems that the powers that be are working on some kind of reform (in the U.S., that is) that will loosen the restrictions, but you know how that goes when legislators get together. Might not happen in my lifetime.

[Ron P.]

Here's another option that is a bit pricey too. I just picked up SonicFire Pro from SmartSound. They have an extensive library of very well done music, and then combine that with SonicFire Pro and you should be good to go.

[Rich2Putt]

If you want to sell or distribute the video on the Net, you would probably also need the permission of anyone who appears in the video. If you are involved in the orginization of the event, this might be possible. If you are doing it freelance, it might be tough.

I believe the videographer is the owner of the copyrights to a video they shoot. It would be impossible to get permission from everyone that appears in the video. Keep the video clean (no xxx rated stuff) & you shouldn't have any issues.

Rich

[Black Lab]

I believe the videographer is the owner of the copyrights to a video they shoot. It would be impossible to get permission from everyone that appears in the video.

Only to a certain degree. Read this great article. It answers a lot of questions.

[BrianCee]

I notice you are in the UK screwball - so you might like to check out the large range of CDs carrying copyright free music which are available here :-

http://www.akmmusic.co.uk/catalogue.htm

This is a well respected and reputable company which I have purchased many CDs from - their not free - but worth the price for piece of mind when adding music to your videos.

You can listen to many of the tracks on their website so you can get an idea of what your buying

~

[screwball2]

Thankyou for all replies - as always so informative, constructive and guiding. I am now looking to use 'Legal stuff'.
kind regards

[sjj1805]

Brian,
Link to AKM added to our list of third party commercial software.
http://phpbb.ulead.com.tw/EN/viewtopic. ... 975#119975