MYTH

Misconceptions about using copyrighted music for your PODCASTS

By POD MIRROR 

8 October 2021 

You might be thinking at this point that there's a method to sneak past copyright laws and utilise your favourite music without getting caught. Well...YOU ARE MISTAKEN! 

Myth #1 I can use any music if I'm not making money off it.

Truth: You're subject to copyright law even if you have a small podcast with only a few downloads and no plans to monetize.

Myth #2 It's okay if I play less than 10 seconds of the song.

Truth: The quantity of music you listen to has no impact on whether or not it is lawful. Even if their tune sounds too close to an existing song, artists might be accused of plagiarism!

Myth #3 I can use any music under "fair use."

Truth: While fair use is a valid defence for utilising copyrighted material in some circumstances, you cannot utilise a copyrighted music to claim fair use.

Myth #4 The artist will understand as long as I provide credit.

Truth: You are not free from copyright laws just because you provide credit to the artist.

Myth #5 Because I critique music on my show, it's fine to use.

Truth: Even if you simply play a brief clip of the music for the purpose of evaluating it, playing a song you don't have the rights to is a copyright violation.