Q: Question about the use of the term Copyright Control in music
So there is a soundtrack album that a song with lyrics that appeared in the album, and this album is almost all instrumental music except for that one song, the song had the same composer but it had 2 writers for the lyrics and it had "Copyright Control" next to to their names. And this song only appeared in the original release of the album and never again in any digital or disc released later on. Does it mean that the writers actually own the song? I am asking this because I am working on project discussing a situation the song is involved in, so I would that it would be safe to ask a copyright lawyer. Looking online gave me conflicting answers. The branch of the company is in LA so I set the location as that. I am not a resident of the US.
A:
The term "Copyright Control" next to the writers' names on the soundtrack album means that they are the copyright owners of the lyrics of the song. This term is often used when the copyright owner of a musical work is unknown or not specified.
If the song only appeared in the original release of the album and was not included in any subsequent digital or disc releases, it is possible that the rights to the song have reverted back to the writers or their heirs. However, this would depend on the terms of the agreement between the writers and the record company, and it is best to consult with a copyright lawyer to determine the specific rights and ownership of the song.
It is important to note that copyright laws can be complex and vary depending on the jurisdiction, so it is always a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in copyright law, especially if you are working on a project that involves the use of copyrighted materials.
Marcos Garciaacosta agrees with this answer
1 user found this answer helpful
A: It depends on diverse factors, but in general the creator(s) of the song is/are the owners of the copyright.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
