Understanding Sound Recording Performance Complement [Patents]: A Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

The term sound recording performance complement refers to specific rules governing the transmission of sound recordings over a designated channel within a three-hour period. According to the law, this includes:

  • Up to three different selections of sound recordings from a single phonorecord, as long as no more than two selections are transmitted consecutively.
  • Up to four different selections of sound recordings either by the same featured recording artist or from a compilation of phonorecords, provided that no more than three selections are transmitted consecutively.

Importantly, even if the total number of selections exceeds these limits, the transmission may still qualify as a sound recording performance complement if it was not intentionally designed to evade these restrictions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A radio station broadcasts three songs from a popular album within a three-hour period, ensuring that no more than two songs are played back-to-back. This complies with the sound recording performance complement rules.

Example 2: A public venue plays four tracks from a compilation album, with no more than three consecutive tracks from the same compilation. This also meets the legal requirements. (hypothetical example)

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in transmitting sound recordings, ensure that you understand the limitations set forth by copyright law. Review your programming to comply with the sound recording performance complement rules. For assistance, consider using US Legal Forms' templates to help manage your compliance needs. If your situation is complex, seeking legal advice may be beneficial.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies based on licensing agreements
Jurisdiction Federal copyright law
Possible Penalties Fines or legal action for non-compliance

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It refers to specific rules governing the transmission of sound recordings within set limits to comply with copyright law.