Mechanical Licensing: Copyright for a Commercially Released Song-

A legal fact:

Once a song has been commercially released by an artist, that artist's song may be re-recorded and released by anyone who chooses to do so. This holds true, provided that the melody or lyric is not substantially altered in the "cover" version, and that the person or persons covering the song pay proper fees and or royalties directly to the song's copyright holder. But...know this, if you release a disc with cover songs on it, then try to obtain proper licensing after the fact, you're no longer eligible and possibly subject to penalties and prosecution for copyright infringement. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to secure proper legal advice from an entertainment attorney.
To research copyright ownership, the publishers of the copyright may be found through the following performing rights agencies.

BMI (www.bmi.com)
ASCAP (www.ascap.com)

SESAC (http://www.sesac.com/)

(NOTE: Outside the US., similar Performance Rights organizations exist for Canada, the UK, Europe and elsewhere.)

John Calwile Vinestreet is a music industry consultant with over 25 years of experience performing, touring, managing and teaching artist development in Hollywood, California. John has performed all over the world with some of the biggest names in the business. He is currently avalible for panels, workshops, one on ones, seminars, and vocal performance clinics.

His specialized categories include but are not limited to: Media relations, Vocal health while touring, Venue selection and reconnaissance, Physical and Online marketing, and the importance of Social Media networking.

For more information contact:

John Calwile Vinestreet
CEO/Vinestreet Music Consulting, LLC
1762 Orchid Avenue, Ste. 104
Hollywood, CA 90028-4316
323.403.7069 (Office)
323.378.6792 (Fax)
john@vinestreetmusicconsulting.com
http://www.vinestreetmusicconsulting.com/

John Calwile Vinestreet

2010 HMMA-Jim DeCicco on the red carpet.

Mixing "I Believe I Can Fly"

JCV NYE sound check CAP.MOV

Hollywood Music in Media Awards and Conference 2010

On November 18, 2010, something wonderful occurred in Hollywood. The Hollywood Music in Media Awards and Conference began in earnest. The HMMA provides unique opportunities for music artists on multiple levels.  In addition to the red carpet awards event held on November 18th, there is also a conference, connectivity for licensing, recording, distribution and other career advancement. The  HMMA produces monthly showcase events that result in paid performance gigs for artists.  The HMMA recognizes and honors the music in visual mediums, the talented individuals responsible for creating and placing it, and the music of both mainstream and independent artists from around the world for their compositions and recordings in all forms of media. This includes film, TV, video games, commercial advertisements, movie trailers, and music videos. 

The HMMA is the first music awards event to recognize and honor excellence in music supervision. In addition, iconic individuals are presented with special awards for outstanding career achievement and longevity in entertainment.

I have been around this town for over 27 years and there is finally a music conference that provides real answers to those burning questions that most established artists and for those that are seeking a future in the music industry can benefit from. Every professional on the panel at the conference spoke of issues that are relevant to today's artist. It was great seeing professionals sharing their most personal secrets and solutions in an industry that is highly competitive. Co-founders Brent Harvey and Jim DeCicco have given hope to independent musicians and artists around the world. HMMA is not about politics but simply about the music.