In a feat of coincidence we at TEJ were wondering what would happen when songs from The Beatles, The Who and other bands from the 60s started to be unprotected by Copyright Law. Earlier today, the act was extended for music from 50 years to 70.

After campaigning from artists such as Cliff Richards, Roger Daltrey and other artists have succeed in the extension they asked for. Dubbed “Cliff’s Law” or “The Beatles Extension” songs written and released now are protected for 70 years. The move from the EU is a triumph for many who are edging towards loosing out of royalties.

The vote came a few days ago and today it was announced that it would definitely be put into place.

Composers however have a different law entirely. Their law states that copyright is held with the composer until the composer dies and another 50 years on top. Basically, as far as I understand the situation, Paul McCartney and his estate after he (unfortunately) dies would still receive royalties and have a claim to copyright on any songs Paul has written. Ringo on the other hand would have a claim on the recording royalties, if he had not have written it.

As certain artists (such as Tom Jones and Cliff) released music that has been penned by other artists they would have had the copyright on the recording run out in 50 years, which means they could still be alive but receiving no royalties on the music.

Fact of the Day: There are two copyrights to match two sets of royalties – publishing and composition.

Sources: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-14882146

http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2011-09/08/eu-copyright-extension