If I record a cover song and put it on my album without permission, what’s the worst thing that could happen to me legally?
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If I record a cover song and put it on my album without permission, what’s the worst thing that could happen to me legally?
Asked on October 21, 2015 under Business Law, Pennsylvania
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
1 You can be sued for any and all profits you made from the album and/or for any loss your unauthorized use caused the rights holder, whichever is greater in some situations e.g. if the copyright is registered, they may be able to get their legal fees, too.
2 They can also get a court order requiring you to a destroy all inventory of the infringing album b destroy all marketing materials which advertise the infringing album c destroy any master recordings, etc. d not sell this album or perform this song in any way, shape, or form.
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