Licensing ... what and how much?

RayW · Licensing ... what and how much?

OK, OK ... Embarassed

... I have to ask. I just can't find the answers easily. So, maybe someone here can help.

What does it take, in the USA, to legally perform covers in SL? And, there are two possibilities: 1 - a club/venue, and 2 - my own little hole in the wall, seating optional.

And, do you all have to fill out all that ASCAP documentation every time?

Distilled1

550 a year for ascap 750 for BMI or something like that.

yep USD. Sad

the issue is there are no on line performance licenses except radio, witch is not the same so its really goofy. you have to buy the venue one and say how many people nightly, can they dance? then it cost more eat? same, and its a min thats why even in RL m"many" yes "MANY" little bars and clubs do not pay the fees. and chance it. I figure if I get caught playing Alice Coopers I never Cry badly to 12Avatars they can kiss my ass.
its a joke Ray for us right now because there is no way to cover that cost in SL its all out of pocket.
I was going to do it, till I found no way to pay per performance for 10-20 people its a deal they add up every day and count #s to get a yearly price.
instead I went to Harry fox and bought the rights to record and distribute the songs I cover. at least I am trying and the publisher will get their cut along with the writer. and I am just practicing for friends when I play in SL right from my studio Wink

thats how I look at it.

Many talk of the SL music Industry I fear the Industry as the RL one shot its self in the foot and is dying a slow death and if we become big we are going to get even more fees put on us. Some one else posted 20 avatars we are small beans to the likes of the RIAA and ASCAP and yes we are they wont mess with someone playing to 20 people a few times a week/month, but if it becomes major big and gets to much notice, if someone starts selling covers and making money without paying for the rights, if they figure out how to put 300+ avatars on listening to the same guy... we will have to run and hide.

And sorry got OT
there are a few other options, use someone elses server not one you rent, as its the broadcaster who really is responsible not the performer Wink