Legal Issues

Legal Issues

by Mike Masnick





Eminem Allowed To Sue Apple Over Song Copyright

from the can-you-sing-a-song-on-national-TV? dept

In February, singer Eminem announced that he was suing Apple for having a commercial that showed a kid singing one of his songs. At the time, I wondered if compulsory licensing laws that handle the ability of a musician to "cover" a song would apply - but some claim that it doesn't apply to commercial offerings. Now, a judge has ruled that the case can proceed, and it could bring up some interesting legal arguments about fair use. Note that Apple didn't actually use Eminem's version of the song - just some kid singing it. That seems like a very fine line. Of course, what may complicate this story is the fact that Apple tried to buy the rights from Eminem, and still went ahead when he refused. It almost makes you wonder if the whole thing (including the lawsuit) is part of a publicity stunt.

3 Comments | Leave a Comment..

 

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  1. Vicodin tattoo

    by Anonymous Coward - May 18th, 2004 @ 12:39pm


    I wonder if the manufacturers of Vicodin will sue M&M for having their brand name tattooed on his arm.

    (reply to this comment) (link to this comment)

  2. No Subject Given

    by Anonymous Coward - May 18th, 2004 @ 1:10pm

    This is getting beyond stupid with the law suits.

    Course the 'artist' is beyond stupid as well.

    (reply to this comment) (link to this comment)

  3. No Subject Given

    by fwe - May 18th, 2004 @ 3:58pm

    funny cause Emimem is using an iPOD in his latest video - MY Band.

    (reply to this comment) (link to this comment)

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