February 2020 Archives

Spotify accused of violating copyright law with podcasts

When musicians create a song, they often feel as though they are putting a piece of themselves into it. To hear it get played on the radio is often a dream come true after many years of hard work. Artists in New York and elsewhere haven't always had a great relationship with streaming services since those sites don't always pay royalties in the same way, but most sites have worked out a way to properly compensate the artists. However, Spotify has recently come under fire for distributing podcasts that allegedly contain illegal music in what may be a violation of copyright law.

Attorneys unfamiliar with an area of law can commit malpractice

Much like medicine, the practice of law requires both extensive education and practical experience. In addition to an undergraduate degree, lawyers and medical professionals typically have to have a graduate degree, as well as specialized training in a particular field within the industry.

Artist accuses gallery owner of copyright infringement

When an artist here in New York or elsewhere partners with a gallery, it is meant to mutually benefit both parties. The artist has a chance to showcase his or her work, and the gallery makes a commission on any sales of the work. There is a sense of trust between both parties that they will act in one another's best interest. Violating that trust isn't just morally wrong, it may be unlawful. An out-of-state artist recently filed a copyright infringement claim against a gallery owner, alleging that the owner copied her paintings.

Multiple streaming services sued over copyright law

When New York musicians create songs, it may feel as though they are sharing a piece of themselves with the world. It is only fair that they are properly financially compensated for the use of that music. However, with the internet, that is becoming increasingly more difficult to do. Streaming services such as the ones offered by Google, Apple and Pandora have come under fire recently for allegedly not compensating artists and related companies for the use of music. One royalty collection firm recently filed a civil suit against several different streaming companies alleging that they violated copyright law.

Artist claims Disney used her van design, violated copyright law

When people think of a work of art, they often think of a painting or sculpture, but there are many other ways for artists to create. No matter what New York artists' mediums may be, it is important that they are able to sell, distribute or otherwise profit off of their creations in whatever way they see fit. If another person or entity uses an artist's work without permission, it can be financially devastating, as the artist did not have the chance to benefit from the usage. This is the claim of one artist who says that entertainment giants Disney and Pixar used her unique design for a passenger van in their upcoming animated feature "Onward," in direct violation of copyright law.


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