I'm trying to get some music licensed to use in my video and I was wondering if you guys can answer some questions for me.

Ok, if I license a song to use in my video, can i do anything to the song (within reason) or does all this have to be cleared with the band/right holder first

Some example of what i'm talking about are:

1. Cut off the beggining of the song and start the song 10-15 seconds into the song.

2. Do the same thing as above only to the end of the song

3. Loop a section of the song ie: take a 8 second guitar riff and loop it to a 16 second riff.

4. cut the song in the middle so that I have 1 or 2 seconds in the video where the action and music all just stop and then continue where it left of off.

5. put an echo effect on a part of the song.

If anybody knows, please let me know. If i have to check with the rights holder first, thats fine, I just didn't want to do anything wrong or bother the rights holder with silly questions.

thanx

Most of the time you should run it by the licenseholders. legally its up to limited rights you have obtained in writing from the licenseholder but even if that states that you can do whatever you want with it, its always good practise to show them how you will treat their work.

/Henrik

The best rule of thumb regarding using music you didn't create yourself.....


Don't

There are NUMEROUS legal issues involved. Not the least of which is you will need a Synchronization License, and a Master Use license.

Students and Indies can work what are called "Step Deals" that pay more as the exposure goes up...

But read all about music rights at
www.ascap.com/filmtv/movies-part1.html

Bill