AFM Pushes Artist Rights

The American Federation of Musicians is lobbying Congress to give sound recordings the same protection as digital recordings.

According to the organization, sound recordings are not fully protected by U.S. copyright law, which means there is no requirement that performers be compensated when sound recordings are broadcast.

“The lack of a performance right in these recordings has deprived musicians and recording companies of fair compensation for the use of their recorded work in the U.S.,” the AFM stated.

The organization is asking Congress to amend the Copyright Act to include a full performance right for sound recordings as it applies to terrestrial and analog broadcasts.