ASCAP President responds to the US Copyright Office Music Licensing Study

PRESS RELEASE:

The US Copyright Office has just completed and released a comprehensive study, “Copyright and the Music Marketplace.” The study details the antiquated music licensing system and the needs of the various stakeholders who rely on that system for their livelihoods. In addition to a thorough review of the existing system, the study offers recommendations that would help songwriters, composers and music publishers, as well as record labels and digital delivery services.

ASCAP President and Chairman of the Board Paul Williams made the following comment about the study:

"With its report today, the US Copyright Office was clear: the current music licensing system needs reform and fast. The report emphasizes how the current system undervalues musical works – something many of our members experience daily. The many proposed updates – particularly recommendations intended to make the system more equitable for songwriters – underscore yet again the inefficiency of the current system for music fans and creators alike. As outlined in the report, the current marketplace is strained by the 70-year old consent decree regime and is not appropriately responsive to the free market, particularly in our new digital world. As we continue to advocate for our members in Washington, today’s report is an important step towards meaningful reform."

Image: paulwilliamsofficial.com