I understand if we play copyright song in public and we may be sued unless we get permission from the songwriter. I just wonder whether the songs have time limit for the copyright. For example, if I play Stephen Foster’s 1800s folk songs, should I get permission to play? Whom do I contact for the permission?
The term of copyright for a particular work depends on several factors, including whether it has been published, and, if so, the date of first publication. As a general rule, for works created after Jan. 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years. For an anonymous work, a pseudonymous work, or a work made for hire, the copyright endures for a term of 95 years from the year of its first publication or a term of 120 years from the year of its creation, whichever expires first. For works first published prior to 1978, the term will vary depending on several factors. To determine the length of copyright protection for a particular work, consult chapter 3 of the Copyright Act (title 17 of the United States Code).
(Yes, I stole that © paragraph. Oops.)
I think it’s safe for anything from the 1800s.
Hi, Cranberry:
Thank you very much for the great information.
KC
Generally 1923 and earlier US copyrights are public domain.
Isn’t there something about ‘gain’.
i.e. you have to get something material or financial out of the performance.
If you’re not getting paid, or doing it for a whistle/meal/board etc
then I don’t think copyright laws apply, otherwise we’d all be locked up for singing/humming/whistling while we walked.
Quite right. There’s a good overview of copyright with respect to performing rights at: