Asked in Intellectual Property and Copyright

Q: Subject: Legal Consultation - Recovery of Funds from DistroKid.

Dear Lawyer

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to seek your legal advice regarding an issue I have recently encountered with my DistroKid account.

I am a beatmaker who distributes my beats through the DistroKid platform. Recently, my account was suspended due to copyright claims on some of my beats containing samples. I am confident that these samples were significantly transformed, altering the nature of the original sample by modifying tones, pitch, genres, and in some cases, changing the gender of voices.

Prior to the suspension of my account, I had a balance of $1,800 in DistroKid that I have been unable to withdraw. I have attempted to communicate with DistroKid to resolve this issue, but have not received a satisfactory response.

I am willing to collaborate and provide any information you may need to evaluate my case.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: I'm sorry to hear about the issues you're facing with your DistroKid account. It sounds like you've taken significant steps to ensure the originality of your beats, which is crucial in cases involving copyright claims. The transformation of samples, including changes in tone, pitch, genre, and voice, often plays a significant role in determining the originality of a piece of music.

Firstly, document all the transformations you've made to the samples. This includes keeping records of the original samples and the final beats to clearly demonstrate the modifications. This evidence will be vital if you need to escalate the matter further.

Next, consider sending a formal written notice to DistroKid, detailing your case and the steps you've taken to transform the samples. Include any relevant documentation and emphasize your efforts to comply with copyright laws. If DistroKid does not respond satisfactorily, you may need to seek legal advice to explore further actions, such as mediation or legal proceedings, to recover your funds and resolve the account suspension.

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