(Image courtesy from wikimedia.org)
At the center of a copyright infringement lawsuit filed by Freeplay Music, CNN has been accused of using hundreds of copyrighted songs in their content without proper music licensing. This violation of copyright law could result in significant penalties for the media giant, with possible damages extending into the millions.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, copyright issues surrounding music licensing have become increasingly important. With so many new streaming services and other platforms making it easier than ever for users to access music online, copyright infringement has become a major concern for licensing companies such as Freeplay Music.
While copyright laws exist to protect song creators from unauthorized use of their works, copyright violations continue to be a serious issue in the media landscape. As such, it is crucial for companies like Freeplay Music to take action against companies that illegally use copyrighted songs without proper licensing.
Lawsuit Against CNN for Downloading and Using Songs without Licensing
At the heart of this case is the claim that CNN has illegally downloaded and used hundreds of copyrighted songs in its broadcast content. This copyright violation could result in significant penalties for CNN, including damages that could total millions of dollars.
Freeplay Music is a company that licenses copyrighted works on behalf of song creators. The lawsuit indicates that at least 115 copyrighted songs were used in at least 280 segments published by CNN.
In the complaint, the lawsuit alleges, in part:
“These are not minor uses. FPM’s production music library has been used to create and enhance the CNN brand in these segments, and to create the mood and feel that the International Parties aimed to convey. The Works often appear at the beginning of the segment and run throughout… [T]he licensing and payment requirements are clearly described on the FPM website. FPM placed CNN on notice of this infringement, but its letter was ignored.”
Most of the infringement is alleged to have occurred with CNN affiliates in the Philippines, Indonesia, Chile and India. Free Play is seeking statutory damages of $150,000 per work infringed.
Analogy to Images Downloaded without License from Stock Photo Websites
Like copyright violations involving stock photo websites, copyright violations involving music licensing can have significant consequences. Just as unauthorized use of images on Shutterstock or Getty Images can result in financial penalties and legal action, copyright violations related to music licensing can also have serious repercussions for companies like CNN.
Licensing Sites Represent Artists and Creators of Copyrighted Content
Just as copyright law exists to protect the rights of copyright holders, companies like Freeplay Music play an important role in representing artists and creators whose copyrighted works have been infringed. By taking action against copyright violations, these companies help ensure that copyright laws are upheld and that copyright protections for song creators continue to thrive in the digital age.
Downloading Content from Licensing Sites without Proper Licensing is an Even Greater Flagrant Violation of Rights
Violations by media companies where they republish images without permission is bad enough. But taking those images from licensing sites – knowing they are licensing sites and flagrantly disregarding the license requirements – is even more offensive.
It is crucial for media companies like CNN to respect copyright protections and abide by licensing requirements. Actions like downloading content from licensing sites without proper licensing are clear violations and must be treated accordingly. With such high stakes at play, media giants like CNN must take copyright infringement seriously and work to ensure that their content is fully licensed and legally compliant.
Has CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, ABC, NBC, CBS or Other Media Outlets Violated Your Copyright?
If any media outlet has violated your copyright and used your images, videos or audio without your permission, you may have a claim for substantial damages. Contact Sanders Law Group today to discuss your copyright infringement case and learn more about your legal options. We have extensive experience handling copyright violation claims, and we are committed to protecting the rights of copyright holders like you.
Call us today at (800) 979-3707 or complete the form on this web page for a free consultation.
