New Music Copyright Laws

[Uzoma]

I just understood that the laws will be updated so that CDs can be legally copied to computers and MP3 players.

What I don't understand is what that has to do with the song 'Newport'. I know it was banned due to copyright issues but what has changed for them and similar songs.

Thanks in advance.

[hc4361]

Because it was a spoof of an original song and the copyright holders objected.

In future such spoofs will be legal.

[Postdog]

ooh, just in time for cher lloyd and swagger jagger then!

[Gromit]

// In future such spoofs will be legal. //

No they won't. The law is being changed (hopefully) that will allow you to transfer recordings you have bought legally from one device to another. But that will only be for personal use.

The Newport song, was illegal because it was based on copyrighted music by Jay-Z. Permission has to be sought for cover versions (as this parody would be classified). The original artist does not have to give permission. If they think changes or amendments denigrate their work. Jay-Z obviously thought that and denied permission.

I remember the papier mached comedian Frank Sidebottom wanted to release a version of 'Olivers Army' by Elvis Costello, but Mr McManus stopped it.

[ABerrant]

The review of Intellectual Property and Growth titled ‘Digital Opportunity’ published by Professor Ian Hargreaves includes ten recommendations to Government designed to ensure that the UK has an IP framework best suited to supporting innovation and promoting economic growth in the digital age.

Recommendation 5 - Limits to copyright - the delivery of copyright exceptions at a national level for format-shifting (copying a CD to a mobile music device), parody, non-commercial research and library archiving.

http://www.ipo.gov.uk/ipreview-finalreport.pdf

[Uzoma]

Thanks for your answers everyone.

So just to clarify, in the future Gromit, what difference will it make if someone wanted to make another 'Newport'?

This is of particular interest to me because I know a number of rap songs that other artists put their new lyrics on the 'old' music. The remixed version doesn't get any royalties as they put it on a free to download mixtape so I'm wondering if the Newport song had some royalty payments attached.

[hc4361]

". In line with Hargreaves’ recommendations, Cable also plans to remove restrictions on using copyright material to create parodies..."

http://www.spectator....ards-the-future.thtml