70 Years - 95 Years
In the US content becomes public domain 70 years after the death of the author or creator.
If the copyright holder is a corporation, it becomes public domain 95 years after it was first published. Read More...
Music + Lyrics
Keep in mind that the copyright on music includes the copyright on the music and lyrics, and possibly a different copyright on the recording. Read More...
Soviet Music
The Soviet Music in NOT in public domain. It is copyrighted. And the copyright term extends to 70 years beyond the death of the author.
If the composer died after 1943, their music is copyrighted. If before, it's in public domain.
“Happy Birthday” is public domain, former owner Warner/Chapell to pay $14M
The public will soon be free to sing the world's most famous song.
Music publisher Warner/Chappell will no longer be allowed to collect licensing royalties on those who sing "Happy Birthday" in public and will pay back $14 million to those who have paid for licensing in the past, according to court settlement papers filed late Monday night. Read More...
Copyright Term in the U.S. - Cornell EDU 2013
Copyright & Trademark Basics For Artists
Plagiarism Checker - Copyscape
Filmmakers sue to put Happy Birthday song back in public domain.
Copyright News at Torrent Freak - covering music, shows, Internet articles.
Is Woody Guthrie's 'This Land' in Public Domain?
The attorneys who fought to free "Happy Birthday" from copyright control have a new target.
In Woody Guthrie's iconic folk song, "This Land," he sang, "This land was made for you and me." On Flag Day, the question now comes: Does the song belong to you and me? Read More...