 | Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years. Thanks, CNET Support |
Okay, so I'm making a movie but I want to put a copyrighted song on it.Is this illegal or anything? Do I need to do anything to play this on my video?
Thanks in advance 
Discussion is locked
But you need to get the release, pay up, etc. If it's small enough and won't leave your home them it could be fair use. But if you play it to any audience you can get whacked.
Well this video is for a school project where judges will be watching this along with the class.
What could go horribly wrong. The RIAA and MPAA are getting rather testy these days.
Guessing here take for it for what its worth, but if the song lasts at least 6sec. of play, you pay royalties, etc., I think that excludes public service or for the public good. Even so, this is an area you need to be aware of or you will be educated the hard way. Pay now or later, Geeezzzz,(bite tongue) a good time for a lawyer to get involved or google away for possible answers. Don't let all that YouTube stuff fool ya, if something becomes popular, a legal letter can be sent. Pay or get the release.
An example, TV shows pay for the slightness play of song tunes and/or old TV commercials(jingles) and a check is sent to the author or owner of the piece. Now, you know why the "screen writers guild" wants more of that piece of action for their works.
tada -----Willy
Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic