4 ms·

How did you go about dealing with licensing the various songs used in the app?

• ronyeh 13y ago
  In short, I do not, since I could not find an appropriate type of license through HFA or similar outlets. Specifically, the app does not contain any samples from the MP3s. It also does not include song lyrics or any printed sheet music. It DOES include link outs to iTunes, so our apps drive downloads to the artists songs. My goal is to compensate artists by generating more downloads for their songs (not that they really need my help). If any music executive ever contacts me regarding licensing, I'll be more than happy to accommodate them. In fact, I'd LOVE to make a branded app for artists such as Bruno or Taylor or Katy. Or, if they are not interested in including their song in my app, I can simply remove it.
  • Jeremy1026 13y ago
    While I'm not a lawyer, I believe claiming ignorance won't keep a lawsuit away if the record labels choose to come after you for using their copyrighted material.
    • ronyeh 13y ago
      Thanks for the feedback. I am not trying to feign ignorance, and I would like to find a way to properly license the content and compensate the rights holders. However, I've looked into it and I don't currently think there is a license type (mechanical/synchronization) that is appropriate for these apps. The apps do not contain any recordings and do not offer un-aided playback of the "songs." The user has to tap out his/her own interpretation of the notes, to make it sound like the song.