Music Licensing Should be a Composers Priority According to Attorney Anthony Spotora

Musicians take their work very seriously. However, they also need to take the legal protection of their compositions seriously according to Los Angeles entertainment lawyer, Anthony Spotora.

Los Angeles, CA (Law Firm Newswire) October 22, 2010 – Music is everywhere in the world of entertainment: Movies, television, radio advertisements and commercials. There is always a need for top-notch songs and artists.

“For an upcoming composer, licensing music is a vital step in growing a career,” said Anthony Spotora, a Los Angeles entertainment attorney. “Licensing music means that your creation is not only protected from illegal use but can also bring a source of income and bigger name recognition. If the people behind a commercial or feature film like your composition, for instance, they will request a music license for the piece.”

While music licensing can be lucrative, it is important to become educated about the process and to receive adequate representation to secure the best deals for oneself.

There are several options for music licensing. One of the best-known options is to register and become a member of ASCAP, BMI or SESAC, which are also known as performing rights organizations (“PRO”).

Such companies collect millions of dollars annually for composers and publishers for performance royalties, but you must be registered as a member to see this income.

“Performing rights organizations act as middlemen, essentially,” Spotora said. “When a song is ‘performed’ – this includes usage in commercials, airplay, etc. – the user pays the PRO rather than the copyright holder directly. The copyright holder is then paid a royalty by the PRO.”

A separate option is to connect with a publishing company. The publisher will handle issues such as music licensing, collecting royalties and negotiating licensing figures. If a musician’s publisher works hard and is well-connected, they can generate serious income for a composer and catapult their career to new heights.

It is important that composers understand how to properly protect their music as well as secure the most desirable music licensing deals. It is also advised that they work with an experienced entertainment attorney to protect their work.

To learn more, talk to a Los Angeles Business Lawyer or Los Angeles Business Attorney by visiting http://www.spotoralaw.com/.

Law Offices of Spotora & Associates, P.C.
1801 Century Park East, 24th Floor
Los Angeles, California 90067-2302
Call: (310) 556.9641

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