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Author: Editor VCD

Can singers perform the exclusive songs of other singers?

Singers performing other people’s “hit” songs without asking for permission, even innocently performing them for commercial purposes, have caused a lot of controversy and become a painful “daily issue” in the entertainment industry. Vietnam in recent times. Not understanding and understanding the law has caused artists to get into many bad “controversies” from netizens as well as violating Intellectual Property laws on Copyright. So, can a singer perform an exclusive song by another singer? Please follow “Can singers perform the exclusive songs of other singers?” VCD’s article below.

1.  What is an exclusive song performance?

The 2005 Intellectual Property Law, through Article 13, has provided specific regulations on copyright and copyright owners of protected works. Accordingly, organizations and individuals whose works are protected by copyright include the person directly creating the work and the copyright owner, as specified in detail from Article 37 to Article 42 of this Law.

However, the current Intellectual Property Law does not have any specific concept of song monopoly, but it can be understood that an artist’s song monopoly is the sole and independent right granted to that artist to control performing and exploiting his songs. This means that the artist is the sole person who has the right to decide how his or her song is used, performed, recorded, released, and distributed.

Exclusive performance of another artist’s song means a singer or group performing a song that only that artist is allowed to perform. That artist has the exclusive right to perform that song on stage or in his or her musical products, and other artists need to have permission or contract from that artist to perform the song. there.

Can singers perform the exclusive songs of other singers?

2.  Can singers perform the exclusive songs of other singers?

According to Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, amended by Clause 5, Article 1 of the Amended Intellectual Property Law 2009 and Point a, Clause 82, Article 1 of the Amended Intellectual Property Law 2022 (Effective from January 1, 2023) regulates types of works protected by copyright, including musical works.

In addition, based on Point g, Clause 1, Article 25 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, as amended by Clause 6, Article 1 of the Amended Intellectual Property Law of 2009 and Clause 7, Article 1 of the Amended Intellectual Property Law of 2022 (Yes effective from January 1, 2023) stipulates exceptional cases that do not infringe copyright.

Exceptions that do not infringe copyright have been specified specifically and transparently while ensuring consideration between the rights of creators and the interests of the community. One of the important exceptions mentioned is the use of published work without permission and payment of royalties. However, to ensure transparency and respect for copyright, users must provide complete information about the author’s name and the origin of the work. This not only helps protect the author’s honor and rights but also promotes fairness in the use of published works.

The law also focuses on ensuring that use of the work does not conflict with the author’s rights and does not cause unreasonable damage to their legitimate interests. This demonstrates the consideration and centrality of the law to maintain a balance between copyright and public interest. For certain types of works such as architectural works, works of fine art, and computer programs, copying does not apply under the provisions of this article. This emphasizes the specialness of these types of works and keeps their copyright protected specially.

In addition, requiring information about the author’s name and the origin of the work is a measure to ensure transparency and respect for the rights of the creator. This not only enhances cultural information management but also helps maintain ethics and respect within the community

When a singer performs a song by another singer, it is called a cover. A cover is usually a re-performance of a song that has been previously released by another artist. It can be similar or different from the original version, and this depends on how creative and varied the performer is in presenting the song. Some covers may retain the style and structure of the original version, while others may feature major changes in music, style, or both.

The law sets out clear conditions for the protection of derivative works. Accordingly, derivative works are only protected if they do not prejudice the copyright of the original work. This upholds the principle of fairness and protects both the rights of the original author and derivative authors.

There is currently a lot of news surrounding the “controversy” of artists “singing” other singers’ hit songs. For example: Huong Ly – the singer known as the “cover saint”, however, Huong Ly also received many mixed opinions about this cover. Some viewers believe that Huong Ly does not comply with copyright or copyright when “every time she sees a hot song, she covers it”. Huong Ly once got into trouble when the two sides could not agree on the rights to the cover.  Immediately afterward, Huong Ly apologized to the song’s exclusive artists and was accepted. That’s why when artists want to perform another person’s song, they need to ask for permission and clearly state the name of the song’s author before covering as well as using the song to perform on stage.

Recently, the press reported on singer Phuong Linh admitting that she was wrong, even though she knew it was Van Mai Huong’s exclusive song, she still deliberately performed it. She arbitrarily put together a band and performed. Immediately after that, Phuong Linh posted an announcement that her manager had worked well with singer Van Mai Huong and sent her thanks to her juniors.  Musician Hua Kim Tuyen – the composer of the above song, said he did not comment on the above incident, because this is Van Mai Huong’s exclusive song, so he let the two sides resolve it themselves.

In conclusion, VCD advises artists who want to perform another artist’s hit song to carefully learn about the provisions of the law: who is the owner, ask for permission from the author or owner of that song, do you belong to the song? In cases where permission from the author/owner is not required or not…. To avoid causing controversy online and copyright infringement.

What rights do musicians have over their musical works?

To successfully compose artistic melodies and popular or timeless hits, it is impossible not to mention talented musicians. In the context of the booming entertainment industry, this has opened up a vast potential path for young people in the music composition industry. However, with the strong development of current media, copyright infringement in general and copyright for musical works in particular are increasingly complicated to control. So, what rights do musicians have over their musical works? Please follow VCD’s article below.

1. What is a musical work?

 According to the provisions of Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, musical works are one of the types of artistic works protected by copyright. Referring to Clause 4, Article 6 of Decree 17/2023/ND-CP, “Musical works specified in Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law are works expressed in the form of musical notes in a musical score. or other musical characters regardless of performance or non-performance.”

Musical works are protected by copyright based on Clause 1, Article 14 of the 2005 Intellectual Property Law (Amended by Clause 5, Article 1 of the 2009 Amended Intellectual Property Law), which regulates artistic works that are copyright protected.

 A musician’s musical work is protected by copyright under current intellectual property laws if it meets the criteria that the work is expressed in the form of musical notes or other musical characters or is shaped on audio or video recordings with or without lyrics. Thus, when the musician only thinks about the lyrics in his head but has not yet expressed them in physical form, the music is not protected by copyright.

What rights do musicians have over their musical works?

2. What rights do musicians have over their musical works?

 According to Article 18 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, copyright includes moral rights and property rights, which means that for their musical works, the author will have moral rights and property rights.

  •  In case the musician is the sole owner of the work

Article 37 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005 stipulates: “The author uses his or her time, finances, and physical and technical facilities to create a work that has moral rights specified in Article 19 and other related laws. property rights specified in Article 20 of this Law”.

 Pursuant to Article 14 of Decree 17/2023/ND-CP and Clause 5, Article 1 of the Intellectual Property Law amended 2022, musicians have the following rights:

  • First, moral rights include:

– Name the work, however naming the work does not apply to works translated from one language to another. The naming of the work must not violate the interests of the State, public interests, legitimate rights, and interests of organizations and individuals, and must not violate other relevant provisions of law.

 – Put your real name or pseudonym on the work; be given your real name or pseudonym when the work is published or used; Apply even when the work is used as a derivative work. When publishing or using derivative works, the real name or pseudonym of the author of the work used as a derivative work must be stated.

– Publishing a work or allowing others to publish a work is the release of copies of the work in any form in a reasonable quantity sufficient for the public to access depending on the nature of the work, due to the nature of the work. made by the author or copyright owner or by another individual or organization with the consent of the author or copyright owner.

– Protect the integrity of the work, do not allow others to edit, mutilate, or distort the work in any form that harms the author’s honor and reputation.

  • Second, property rights include:

 – Making derivative works;

– Performing works to the public directly or indirectly through audio recordings, video recordings, or any other technical means at a location that is accessible to the public but cannot be freely chosen by the public time and each part of the work;

– Directly or indirectly copy all or part of the work by any means or form, except for the case specified in Point a, Clause 3, Article 20 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, amended in 2022;

– Distributing, importing for distribution to the public through sale or other form of transfer of ownership rights to originals and copies of works in tangible form;

– Broadcasting or communicating to the public works by wire or wireless means, electronic information networks, or any other technical means, including providing works to the public in a way that the public they are accessible at a place and time of their choosing.

These rights will be exercised exclusively by the musician or allowed to be exercised by others following the provisions of the IP Law. Therefore, when any organization or individual exploits or uses one, some, or all of the rights under property rights and the right to publish works, they must ask for permission and pay royalties, remunerations, and other rights. Other material benefits for copyright owners, specifically musicians here. In particular, the right to publish the work or allow others to publish the work and the property rights for non-anonymous musical works are protected for the entire life of the author and the next 50 years. by the year the author died; If the work has a co-author, the term of protection will end in the 50th year after the year in which the last co-author dies.

From there it can be seen that, when a musical work is composed by a musician, it has become an “exclusive musical work”, under the exclusive ownership and use of that musician and only the music. Only that artist has the right to allow one or more other people to exercise property rights over his or her musical work. The above rights to the musician’s musical work will be properly protected by intellectual property law. even if the musician does not apply for a Copyright Registration Certificate, because copyright arises as soon as the work is created and is expressed in a certain material form, not distinguish between content, quality, form, media, language, published or unpublished, registered or unregistered.

  • In case the musician is assigned to write music or has an agreement in a cooperation contract to write music for another organization or individual (the author is not also the owner of the work)

According to Article 39 of the 2005 Intellectual Property Law, the author who is not also the owner of the work has moral rights (except for the right to publish the product according to Clause 3, Article 19 of the 2005 Intellectual Property Law, amended). supplement 2022). Contact Article 14 of Decree 17/2023/ND-CP Musicians who create musical works have the following rights:

– Name the work, however naming the work does not apply to works translated from one language to another. The naming of the work must not violate the interests of the State, public interests, legitimate rights, and interests of organizations and individuals, and must not violate other relevant provisions of law.

– Put your real name or pseudonym on the work; be given your real name or pseudonym when the work is published or used; Apply even when the work is used as a derivative work. When publishing or using derivative works, the real name or pseudonym of the author of the work used as a derivative work must be stated.

– Protect the integrity of the work, do not allow others to edit, mutilate, or distort the work in any form that harms the author’s honor and reputation. In case the musician and the other party have a different agreement, the musician’s rights to the work will be exercised according to the agreement in the contract.

In conclusion, the musician will have moral and property rights regarding his or her musical work in case the musician is the sole author of that work. On the other hand, if an organization or individual hires a musician to write a musical work, the musician’s rights to the musical work are exercised according to the rental contract; in case there is no agreement, the musician has certain rights. moral rights of the work according to the law.

Music Copyright Infringement in Digital Environment

The world is increasingly entering a period of digital transformation and scientific and technical revolution. The problem of copyright infringement is becoming increasingly common and appearing everywhere, especially on social networking platforms. – where hundreds of millions of domestic and foreign user accounts are connected. The problem of music Copyright is complicated to control. Therefore, we will inevitably avoid copyright violations when posting download content on digital platforms. To learn more about this issue, please follow “Music Copyright Infringement in Digital Environment” VCD’s article below.

1. What is music copyright infringement?

Copyright (or authorship) is a legal term used to describe authors’ rights over their literary and artistic works.

Copyright infringement, piracy, or piracy is the unauthorized use of works protected by copyright law unless authorized, violating certain exclusive rights granted to the owner. copyright, such as the right to copy, distribute, display, perform protected work, or make derivative works.

Music copyright infringement can be understood as a song or musical work being cut or used without the permission of the song owner. More specifically, acts such as stealing logos and work names; unauthorized modification, use for commercial advertising purposes, illegal sale, and most commonly copying and plagiarism.

2.  Music copyright infringement in the digital environment

In fact, at present, the protection of digital content by rights holders almost stops at implementing technological measures to protect their works, and at the same time implementing warning and security measures. Administrative measures to request state agencies to assist in preventing large-scale violations. Applying civil lawsuits in competent courts is still difficult for rights holders.

On average, Vietnamese people spend more than an hour a day listening to music on their mobile devices. Understanding this, many technology companies and application developers have invested and developed websites and online music applications so users can enjoy music anywhere and anytime. In Vietnam, online music has gradually become popular. Along with the development of online platforms combined with smartphone applications, the potential of the online music market in Vietnam is huge. It is predicted that in the future there will be more online music applications participating in the Vietnamese music market; Especially the birth and rapid development of short video sharing platforms such as TikTok, Shorts (Google), Reels (Facebook)… making accessing musical works in the digital environment even more difficult. more convenient and easier.

Not stopping there, the rights holders who are violated are not only domestic organizations and individuals but also foreign organizations and individuals. In addition, currently, companies provide intermediary services that allow users to access and post content, but copyright control is very loose, causing widespread copyright infringement.

In case of copyright infringement, you may be subject to administrative sanctions as prescribed in Article 10 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP:

“1. A fine from 3,000,000 VND to 5,000,000 VND shall be imposed for arbitrarily editing or mutilating works that harm the author’s honor and reputation.

2. A fine from 5,000,000 VND to 10,000,000 VND shall be imposed for distorting works that harm the author’s honor and reputation.

3. Remedial measures:

a) Forced public correction on the mass media of false information for the acts specified in Clauses 1 and 2 of this Article;

b) Forced removal of copies of infringing works in electronic form, on the Internet and digital environment or forced destruction of infringing material evidence for acts specified in Clause 1 and Clause 2 of this Article.”

In addition, Article 18 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP also stipulates that acts of infringing on the right to copy works will be fined from 15,000,000 VND to 35,000,000 VND and subject to penalties. overcome the above consequences.

Music Copyright Infringement in Digital Environment

3. How to check music copyright infringement on Facebook and Youtube

How to check music copyright infringement on Facebook

Step 1: Install the SoundHound application on CH Play or the App Store.

Step 2: Turn on the music and start the SoundHound application.

Step 3: Access Facebook’s copyrighted music link.

Step 4: Search for the song in your video.

Step 5: If the song is displayed, it means the song is not copyrighted and you can use it.

How to check music copyright infringement on Youtube

Step 1: Access the address: https://tunestotube.com

Step 2: Sign in with your Gmail.

Step 3: Select the music you want to check for copyright.

Step 4: Upload photos and mp3 clips.

Step 5: Click “Create Video”

Step 6: Wait for the video to be created.

Step 7: Log in to your YouTube account.

Step 8: Check if the music video you create is copyrighted.

Faced with the increasingly common situation of copyright infringement in the digital environment, VCD believes that protecting the rights and interests of authors needs to be given more importance and attention than normal civil issues to avoid negative impact on psychological factors, affecting the author’s creativity as well as the quality of his brainchild.

Does a cafe that plays music to serve customers have to pay royalties?

Society is constantly developing, more and more services are being opened for business. Especially the beautiful view cafe serves for entertainment, studying, taking photos, and virtual living. The existence of musical works in coffee shops is no longer strange to us. Music is a source of inspiration as well as an indispensable customer attraction. However, whether or not these venues need to ask permission or pay royalties for music works is a question of many people. Please follow VCD’s article “Does a cafe that plays music to serve customers have to pay royalties? below to understand more about this issue.

1. What is music copyright?

A musical work is a work expressed in the form of musical notes in sheet music or other musical characters or fixed on audio or video recordings with or without lyrics, regardless of whether they are performed or not. Shows.

According to Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, amended and supplemented in 2009 and 2019, regulations on types of works protected by copyright are as follows:

“Article 14. Types of works protected by copyright

1. Protected literary, artistic, and scientific works include:

d) Musical works;”

Thus, what music copyright is the assertion of the author’s rights to the musical work they create, it is a legal document that represents someone’s ownership of the song, Be it singers, musicians, or singing enthusiasts. Copyright affirms the identity of the person who created and composed specific melodies and songs. When a song is copyrighted, their creative efforts will be protected by law, no one can infringe upon it, otherwise, they will be appropriately punished.

Does a cafe that plays music to serve customers have to pay royalties?

2. Does a cafe that plays music to serve customers have to pay royalties?

Music is an endless and indispensable source of inspiration in life. Using music for entertainment is an indispensable thing for us every day, but when using it in commercial business, another aspect needs to be discussed: copyright.

  • Pursuant to Point b, Clause 1, Article 33 of the 2005 Intellectual Property Law amended by Clause 9, Article 1 of the 2022 Amended Intellectual Property Law, regulations on royalty payment to cafes that play music for customers are as follows:

1. Cases of using published audio or video recordings that do not require permission but must pay royalties and information about the audio or video recordings include:

b) Organizations and individuals that use published audio or video recordings for commercial purposes in business and commercial activities do not have to ask for permission but must pay royalties as agreed to the performers and publishers. produce audio and video recordings and organize broadcasting since use; In case an agreement cannot be reached, the Government’s regulations will be followed. The Government regulates in detail the business and trade activities specified in this Point.

  • In addition, based on Article 34 of Decree 17/2023/ND-CP regulating organizations and individuals that must pay royalties as follows:

1. Using works that have been permitted by the copyright owner to be recorded on audio or video recordings for commercial purposes in business and commercial activities according to the provisions of Point b, Clause 1, Article 26 of Intellectual Property Law; Audio or video recordings that have been published for commercial purposes in business and commercial activities according to the provisions of Point b, Clause 1, Article 33 of the Intellectual Property Law are the use of works by organizations and individuals. , audio and video recordings published for commercial purposes for use in restaurants, cafes, hotels, stores, supermarkets; Amusement and entertainment areas, shopping centers; fitness, health care, and beauty clubs; Karaoke service establishments; bars, dance halls; in aviation, public transport and other business and commercial activities of a similar nature.

2. Organizations and individuals using works, audio, and video recordings according to the provisions of Clause 1, Article 26, and Clause 1, Article 33 of the Intellectual Property Law are obliged to directly contact the copyright owner. Authors, performers, owners of related rights to audio and video recordings, or collective representative organizations of copyright and related rights regarding the exploitation, use, provision of catalogs, and duration of works Products, audio and video recordings have been used and royalties have been paid according to the provisions of law.

In case the copyright owner, performer, or related rights owner of the audio or video recording cannot be found or contacted, the organization or individual using the work or audio recording, record the performance of obligations with competent state agencies according to the provisions of Clause 6, Article 23 of this Decree, the competent state agencies continue to search and manage according to the provisions of Clause 8, Article 23. of this Decree.

Thus, cafes that play music to serve customers do not have to ask for permission but must pay royalties to the performers and song producers. The cafe owner is obliged to contact directly with the copyright owner of the song to negotiate and pay royalties.

In case an agreement cannot be reached, royalties must be paid according to the rate prescribed in Appendix II of Decree 17/2023/ND-CP. Specifically, royalty amount paid (calculated annually) = Base salary x Adjustment coefficient (Adjustment coefficient calculated based on capacity or area/location based on year of use). For coffee/refreshment shops:

  • Capacity/area up to 15 m2: Adjustment coefficient is 0.35/15 m2/year.
  • Capacity/area from over 15 m2 to 50 m2: For each additional m2, the adjustment coefficient is 0.04/m2/year.
  • Capacity/area over 50 m2: For each additional m2, the adjustment coefficient is 0.02/m2/year.

(Maximum royalty amount in a year is: 8 x Base Salary)

  • If you do not pay royalties within 90 days from the date of use, you must stop using it. If after the above time limit you continue to use it, this is considered an act of using published audio or video recordings for commercial purposes in commercial business activities without paying the owner for use. exists at Point b, Clause 2, Article 29 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP.
  • When detected, the violator may be fined from 10,000,000 VND to 15,000,000 VND (for individuals) or fined from 20,000,000 VND to 30,000,000 VND (for organizations). , and may be required to pay the above royalty amount.

In the coffee shop business, playing music to create an attractive space is an important factor. However, business owners need to clearly understand music copyright regulations and their responsibilities. Paying royalties for songs and complying with the law will help avoid unwanted legal and financial consequences. At the same time, valuing copyright and paying royalties will motivate creativity and produce better, better-quality works.

Sample declaration for registration of copyright for musical works

Music today is one of the means of entertainment, helping people relieve stress and anxiety. It is also a way to help people develop emotions and learn many things through melodies and lyrics. This type of work is very susceptible to being copied and used illegally. According to current Intellectual Property law, musical works are one of the types protected by copyright. So, what issues should you pay attention to in the form of copyright registration declaration for musical works? Please follow VCD’s article below.

1. What is a musical work?

A musical work is a work created and expressed through music. This is a type of work of art, composed and performed by a musician or group of musicians. Musical works can be expressed as musical notes in sheet music, or communicated through other musical symbols (e.g., chords, guitar tabs). Additionally, musical works can also be recorded and released as sound recordings, allowing listeners to enjoy and experience the music across media.

According to the provisions of Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law 2005, musical works are one of the types of artistic works protected by copyright.

Referring to Clause 4, Article 6 of Decree 17/2023/ND-CP, “Musical works specified in Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law are works expressed in the form of musical notes in a musical score. or other musical characters regardless of performance or non-performance.”

Musical works are protected by copyright from the moment the work is created in a recordable form in physical form, the form of recording can be on paper, typewritten, or another form of recording. Thus, when the musician only thinks about the lyrics in his head but has not yet expressed them in physical form, the music is not protected by copyright.

2. Documents to register copyright for musical works

To register the copyright owner of a musical work, the author needs to prepare the following documents and records:

Copyright registration declaration for musical works (according to form No. 04 in Circular 08/2023/TT-BVHTTDL dated June 2, 2023. Circular stipulating forms for copyright and copyright registration activities). relate to):

  • The declaration must be made in Vietnamese and signed by the author, copyright owner, related rights owner or person authorized to submit the application. The declaration must contain complete information about the applicant, author, copyright owner or related rights owner. The declaration must contain a summary of the content of the work, performance, audio recording, video recording or broadcast; author’s name, the work is used as a derivative work if the work is registered as a derivative work; time, place, and form of announcement; Commitment to responsibility for the information stated in the application.
  • Two copies of the copyrighted work:
  • 01 copy kept at the Copyright Office and 01 copy stamped with the Registration Certificate number and returned to the subject to whom the Registration Certificate was issued.

For musical works: 02 printed copies of music + lyrics or audio recording (recording) in case of recording.

  • Power of attorney or authorization contract, in case the authorizing party is an individual, the authorization document must be authenticated according to the provisions of law.
  • Documents proving the right to apply;
  • Written consent of the co-authors, if the work has co-authors;
  • Written consent of the co-owners, if the copyright is jointly owned.
  • Identity card or citizen identification card of the author or owner of the work;
  • Copy of the company’s Business Registration Certificate (if the owner is a company).

All documents submitted with the copyright registration application must be made in Vietnamese; if made in a foreign language, they must be translated into Vietnamese and notarized or authenticated.

Sample declaration for registration of copyright for musical works

3. Notes when filling out the Copyright Registration Form for musical works

In section (1) In case of copyright registration declaration for an individual, initial each page of the declaration; In case of copyright registration declaration for an organization, stamp the declaration.

In section (2) Issuing copies for dissemination to the public such as publishing, recording, recording, printing, and posting on telecommunications networks, the Internet, and other forms.

In section (3) Commitment: The content of the work is created by the author/co-author, is not copied from the works of others, and does not violate the provisions of Vietnamese law.

For works containing content related to sovereignty, territory, national borders, history, religion, beliefs, fine customs, health, honor, prestige, rights, and legitimate interests laws of other organizations and individuals; State and public interests must ensure that there is no violating content or images, no distortion, and no impact on these issues.

In section (4)

4.1. Fully declare all co-authors (if any) and clearly state the role of each co-author in creating the work;

4.2. In case the author has died, clearly state the year the author died in this section.

In section (5), and section (7) Full declaration of co-owners of copyright, if any.

In section (6) Full declaration of co-authors, if any.

In section (8) In case of registration for an author who is not also the copyright owner, the author is the person signing the Declaration.

In case of registration for the copyright owner, the copyright owner or the copyright owner’s legal representative is the person who signs and stamps (in the case of an organization) on the Declaration.

In case the work has co-authors/co-copyright owners, it must have the signatures of all co-authors/co-copyright owners. The declaration can be signed by one of the co-authors/co-copyright owners if there is written authorization from the remaining co-authors/co-copyright owners according to the provisions of the law.

Where to buy music copyright?

Nowadays, there are more and more disputes related to song copyright. This shows that songwriters have begun to pay more attention to protecting the fruits of their creative labor. In addition, the development of many social networking platforms along with the development of tools to detect and combat music copyright infringement makes organizations and individuals more aware of copyright. when using someone else’s song. So, where to buy music copyright? Please follow VCD’s article below.

1. What is music copyright?

Copyright (or authorship) is a legal term used to describe the rights that authors have over their literary and artistic works.

Music (song) is also known as a musical work. According to the provisions of Article 10 of Decree No. 22/2018/ND-CP, a musical work is understood as a work expressed in the form of notes in music or other musical characters or shaped on a recording. Audio and video recording with or without lyrics, regardless of performance or non-performance.

Therefore, music copyright, also known as song copyright, is understood as the author’s right to the work expressed as musical notes in music or other musical characters or shaped on recordings. audio or video recording with or without lyrics, regardless of performance or non-performance from the time the author creates the work.

When a song is introduced to the public, that song is the creative result of the Musician (person who composes the musical work), the performer or presenter of the work (singer, musician,…), and of Music Producers (audio recording, video recording of performances). Accordingly, Vietnamese intellectual property law protects copyright for organizations and individuals who create or own musical works and protects rights related to copyright for organizations and individuals who create or own musical works with performances, audio recordings, and video recordings.

2. The role of song copyright

a. Protect the creator’s ideas

The biggest role of song copyright is to protect the ideas and intelligence that the songwriter has worked hard to come up with. It is a human’s labor, with certain spiritual value. Therefore, it is impossible for others to arbitrarily use the fruits of that labor without any effort. When a song is copyrighted, online phenomena cannot take advantage of it to highlight themselves or engage in disrespectful behavior toward other authors.

b. Avoid author impersonation

The composer may be impersonated to create other inappropriate music. Bad guys can steal and impersonate musicians to sell songs or scam other singers. When you have a copyright to a song, you are considered to have a piece of paper proving your identity or name as the composer of this copyright, verifying that you are the musician who composed this song.

c. Avoid plagiarized songs

The current music market is somewhat chaotic because of many similar music styles. Many musicians refuse to be creative and instead steal or plagiarize other people’s melodies or lyrics. That’s why authors always prepare song copyrights to be ready to sue if someone plagiarizes their music.

d. Protect the song from being corrupted

In addition, the music market includes not only official songs but also parody music, comedy music, variation music, etc. Therefore, musicians also need to consider allowing those who can make their music to be consistent with Vietnamese traditions and customs. If they arbitrarily or intentionally make music without permission, they will be punished according to the law.

Where to buy music copyright?

3. Where to buy song copyright?

To purchase song rights, you need to contact the author or owner of the song directly. These are the subjects who have the right to dispose of and use their works. However, asking for permission and paying royalties consumes a lot of time, effort, and expense. Owners often have great enthusiasm for their spiritual assets.

In case a musical work has co-owners, the transfer must be with the agreement of all co-owners; In cases where there are co-owners but the musical work has separate parts that can be separated and used independently, the copyright owner has the right to transfer the copyright to his or her separate parts to the organization. , other individuals.

In addition, if you have relationships with many authors, contacting them is very easy. Or the parties see the capacity and effectiveness of cooperation to seek benefits and increase the value of the work. However, if you do not have a relationship with the authors, contacting them will take a lot of time.

Organizations and individuals who want to use musical works must apply for permission and pay royalties to music authors and must proactively contact and work directly with the song’s author. In many cases, they will encounter difficulties. To be implemented quickly, conveniently, and accurately, individuals and organizations can go through a focal point for collective management of rights.

Currently, song authors tend to authorize organizations to carry out collective management of Copyright Rights, VCD is such an organization, VCD represents them in working with organizations and individuals wishing to use or purchase song copyrights. Therefore, you can contact and work directly with VCD about purchasing song copyright if the song author has authorized VCD.

Where to buy music copyright?

Nowadays, there are more and more disputes related to song copyright. This shows that songwriters have begun to pay more attention to protecting the fruits of their creative labor. In addition, the development of many social networking platforms along with the development of tools to detect and combat music copyright infringement makes organizations and individuals more aware of copyright. when using someone else’s song. So, where to buy music copyright? Please follow “Where to buy music copyright?” VCD’s article below.

1. What is music copyright?

Copyright (or authorship) is a legal term used to describe the rights that authors have over their literary and artistic works.

Music (song) is also known as a musical work. According to the provisions of Article 10 of Decree No. 22/2018/ND-CP, a musical work is understood as a work expressed in the form of notes in music or other musical characters or shaped on a recording. Audio and video recording with or without lyrics, regardless of performance or non-performance.

Therefore, music copyright, also known as song copyright, is understood as the author’s right to the work expressed as musical notes in music or other musical characters or shaped on recordings. audio or video recording with or without lyrics, regardless of performance or non-performance from the time the author creates the work.

When a song is introduced to the public, that song is the creative result of the Musician (person who composes the musical work), the performer or presenter of the work (singer, musician,…), and of Music Producers (audio recording, video recording of performances). Accordingly, Vietnamese intellectual property law protects copyright for organizations and individuals who create or own musical works and protects rights related to copyright for organizations and individuals who create or own musical works with performances, audio recordings, and video recordings.

2. The role of song copyright

a. Protect the creator’s ideas

The biggest role of song copyright is to protect the ideas and intelligence that the songwriter has worked hard to come up with. It is a human’s labor, with certain spiritual value. Therefore, it is impossible for others to arbitrarily use the fruits of that labor without any effort. When a song is copyrighted, online phenomena cannot take advantage of it to highlight themselves or engage in disrespectful behavior toward other authors.

b. Avoid author impersonation

The composer may be impersonated to create other inappropriate music. Bad guys can steal and impersonate musicians to sell songs or scam other singers. When you have a copyright to a song, you are considered to have a piece of paper proving your identity or name as the composer of this copyright, verifying that you are the musician who composed this song.

c. Avoid plagiarized songs

The current music market is somewhat chaotic because of many similar music styles. Many musicians refuse to be creative and instead steal or plagiarize other people’s melodies or lyrics. That’s why authors always prepare song copyrights to be ready to sue if someone plagiarizes their music.

d. Protect the song from being corrupted

In addition, the music market includes not only official songs but also parody music, comedy music, variation music, etc. Therefore, musicians also need to consider allowing those who can make their music to be consistent with Vietnamese traditions and customs. If they arbitrarily or intentionally make music without permission, they will be punished according to the law.

Where to buy music copyright?

3. Where to buy song copyright?

To purchase song rights, you need to contact the author or owner of the song directly. These are the subjects who have the right to dispose of and use their works. However, asking for permission and paying royalties consumes a lot of time, effort, and expense. Owners often have great enthusiasm for their spiritual assets.

In case a musical work has co-owners, the transfer must be with the agreement of all co-owners; In cases where there are co-owners but the musical work has separate parts that can be separated and used independently, the copyright owner has the right to transfer the copyright to his or her separate parts to the organization. , other individuals.

In addition, if you have relationships with many authors, contacting them is very easy. Or the parties see the capacity and effectiveness of cooperation to seek benefits and increase the value of the work. However, if you do not have a relationship with the authors, contacting them will take a lot of time.

Organizations and individuals who want to use musical works must apply for permission and pay royalties to music authors and must proactively contact and work directly with the song’s author. In many cases, they will encounter difficulties. To be implemented quickly, conveniently, and accurately, individuals and organizations can go through a focal point for collective management of rights.

Currently, song authors tend to authorize organizations to carry out collective management of Copyright Rights, VCD is such an organization, VCD represents them in working with organizations and individuals wishing to use or purchase song copyrights. Therefore, you can contact and work directly with VCD about purchasing song copyright if the song author has authorized VCD.

Are songs translated from foreign languages protected?

Nowadays, music exchange between countries has become easier thanks to the help of the Internet. A song is a type of work of art that can be expressed in many different languages. So if the original song is protected by copyright, will the translation of the song in another language be protected by copyright? Please follow VCD’s article “Are songs translated from foreign languages protected?” below.

1. What is the translation of the song?

Translation is the product of language conversion from the source language to the target language to be translated. This language conversion process is called translation (also known as paper translation). Translations will be divided into two main types: Content Translation and Notarized Translation.

A song (synonyms in Vietnamese: song, song, or song) is a musical composition performed by the human voice. This is usually done at distinct and fixed pitches (melody) using sound patterns and silence.

Musical works specified in Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law are works expressed in the form of notes in music or other musical characters with or without lyrics, regardless of whether To perform or not to perform.

Accordingly, a song translation is a version translated into another language based on the original language of the song. Accordingly, song translations are considered a type of derivative work. When the audience enjoys a derivative work, they will think of the original work because the derivative work inherits certain foundations of the original work such as content, melody, etc. Through this, it can be understood that the translation of the article The song above is considered a translated work.

2.    Basis for arising copyright for songs

Copyright for musical works arises when the work is created and expressed in a certain material form and is not required to be registered or announced (according to Clause 1, Article 6 of the Intellectual Property Law). wisdom).

However, to avoid disputes and prove that the song belongs to them, the author and owner should carry out the procedure to apply for a Copyright Registration Certificate for the song. Without registration, proving this is not easy, affecting the rights and interests of the author and owner of the song.

Registering copyright protection for a song means that your product will be protected by law and guaranteed that your product will not be used illegally such as copying, abuse… Register Copyright is the best way to certify human creativity, the most worthy reward for the creator.

Are songs translated from foreign languages protected?

3.    Are songs translated from foreign languages protected?

To receive copyright protection, songs translated from a foreign language must meet the following three conditions:

First, derivative works may prejudice the copyright of the original work. Clause 2, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law stipulates that derivative works are only protected if they do not prejudice the copyright of the work used to make derivative works. Copyright includes moral and property rights (Article 18 of the Intellectual Property Law). Accordingly, song translations will be protected if they do not harm the personal and property rights of the original work.

Second, to make a translated work, you must ask permission from the author or copyright owner. In Clause 7, Article 28 of the Intellectual Property Law, it is stipulated that if you create a derivative work without permission from the author or copyright owner, this is an act of copyright infringement. Except for converting works into Braille or another language for the blind according to Point i, Clause 1, Article 25 of this Law.

Third, derivative works must bear the author’s imprint. A derivative work is a work created based on the original work but has new features in writing style, and communication style… These things create unique features for derivative works and show the characteristics and imprints. of the author to the public.

Registering copyright for translated works, although not mandatory, is very important because this will help authors and copyright owners prevent copyright infringements and serve as evidence. to prove copyright when a dispute arises related to copyright.

In conclusion, if a song’s translation into another language wants to be protected, it must seek permission from the author or copyright owner of the original song. Above is VCD’s article, hopefully it will be helpful to you.

Does covering a song require permission?

The trend of cover singing (re-singing a song in many forms) is increasingly popular in Vietnamese showbiz. It can turn an unknown singer into a “goddess” or “god” of covers on YouTube, but it can also turn around and slander the singer’s name, denouncing the singer’s range and talent. Covering popular or already famous songs is not a bad thing. Behind the covers of all styles and constantly appearing on websites are sad stories, that reveal many limitations. that not everyone can notice. So the question is, do cover songs require permission? Please follow VCD’s article below.

1. What is a song cover?

The cover song is a term used to talk about a musical product, a song that is remade or re-written from a previously sung and recorded song. There have been many people with singing ability who have covered famous songs by other artists and received positive responses from the online community as well as music fans.

Covering a song is understood as re-singing a previously available song that was commercially released or a famous song.

Covering a song means that the cover will use the beat of the original song and sing it over that music. Or for the cover person, they can add keyboard and piano skills to transform the song according to their style.

2.  Does covering a song require permission?

Cover songs are considered derivative works of the original work or public performance.

Musical works are a type of work protected by copyright according to Point d, Clause 1, Article 14 of the Intellectual Property Law.

According to Point B, Clause 1, Article 20 of the Intellectual Property Law and Clause 1, Article 21 of Decree 22/2018/ND-CP regulating copyright property rights: The act of covering another person’s song without permission is the act of infringing on copyright and the right to perform works in public.

According to Clause 3, Article 20 of the Intellectual Property Law, it can be concluded that covering another person’s song without permission is an infringement of copyright and the right to perform the work in public. Covering other people’s songs requires permission and payment of royalties, remuneration, and other material benefits to the copyright owner.

However, covering other people’s songs in the following cases does not require permission, does not require payment of royalties, or does not require permission but must pay royalties:

Cases where permission is not required and royalties are not paid according to Clause 1, Article 25 of the Intellectual Property Law:

+ Self-copy a copy for personal scientific research and teaching purposes.

+ Reasonably cite the work without distorting the author’s intention to comment or illustrate in your work.

+ Cite works without misrepresenting the author’s intention to write articles and use them in periodicals, radio and television programs, and documentary films.

+ Cite works to teach in schools without distorting the author’s intention and not for commercial purposes.

+ Copy works to store in the library for research purposes.

+ Performing theatrical works and other artistic performances in cultural and propaganda activities without collecting money in any form.

+ Recording and recording live performances for current news or teaching purposes.

+ Taking photos and broadcasting works of art, architecture, photography, and applied arts displayed in public places to introduce the image of that work.

+ Convert the work into Braille or another language for the visually impaired.

+ Import copies of works for others to use privately.

– Cases where permission is not required but royalties must be paid according to Clause 1, Article 26 of the Intellectual Property Law:

+ Broadcasting organizations that use published works for broadcasting with sponsorship, advertising, or collecting money in any form do not have to ask for permission but must pay royalties and remuneration to the copyright owner. fake since use.

+ Broadcasting organizations that use published works to broadcast without sponsorship, advertising, or collecting money in any form do not have to ask for permission but must pay royalties and remuneration to the owner copyright from the time of use according to Government regulations

From the above regulations, when covering other people’s songs to post on social networking platforms in general, it is necessary to apply for permission and pay royalties and remuneration to the copyright owner.

Does covering a song require permission?

3.   Penalties for covering songs without permission

For acts of covering songs without the consent of the copyright owner, they can be punished as follows according to Clause 2, Article 2, Article 13 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP:

– A fine from 5,000,000 VND to 10,000,000 VND shall be imposed for directly performing a work in public without the permission of the copyright owner according to regulations.

– A fine from 10,000,000 VND to 15,000,000 VND shall be imposed for performing works through audio or video recording programs or any other technical means that the public can access without permission. Permission from the copyright owner according to regulations. Apply remedial measures to force the removal of copies of infringing audio and video recordings.

The above is the administrative fine for individuals. If an organization commits a similar violation, the fine will be double that of an individual.

In conclusion, the act of covering a song without permission or payment can be subject to an administrative fine of up to 30 million VND. However, in reality, with a hot song covered on YouTube, the income can be greater than this number. In addition, using or requesting to handle copyright infringement in Vietnam is not enough of a deterrent, so VCD advises work owners to pay more attention to protecting their rights by registering copyright to have a basis for evidence in court.

Handling copyright infringement of musical works

Along with the development of digital media platforms, social networks, and online content streaming services, the issue of copyright infringement in cyberspace, especially in the music industry, is always a painful topic in public opinion. So how will this act be punished? Please follow “Handling copyright infringement of musical works” VCD’s article below.

1. What is copyright infringement of musical works?

Copyright (or authorship) is a legal term used to describe the rights that authors have over their literary and artistic works.

Copyright infringement is the unauthorized use of another person’s copyrighted work without permission. Thereby violating certain rights that the subject of those works is granted the right to copy, distribute, display, or perform the protected work. The copyright holder here can be the author, creator of the work, publisher, or business assigned the right to distribute.

Accordingly, music copyright infringement can be understood as songs or musical works being cut or used without the permission of the song owner. More specifically, acts such as stealing logos and work names; unauthorized modification, use for commercial advertising purposes, illegal sale, and most commonly copying and plagiarism. This seriously affects the author’s creativity and right to protect his own musical works.

2. Current situation of musical copyright infringement

Recently, the Vietnam – Korea Copyright Forum (organized by the Copyright Office, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and the Korean Copyright Protection Agency – KCOPA) took place in Ho Chi Minh City on the morning of March 26. The forum was held with the theme “Copyright policy in the digital environment and cooperation plans between the two countries”, especially focusing on the content of music copyright protection.

Information about the economic contribution of cultural industries based on copyright, Director of the Copyright Department Tran Hoang said that the production value of Vietnam’s cultural industries in the period 2018-2022 contributed The average estimated contribution reached 1,059 million billion VND (equivalent to about 44 billion USD). In particular, performing arts activities in the period 2018-2022 will grow, the average production value will increase by 5.59%/year, and the added value of the performing arts sector will increase by 5% on average. 67%/year. Vietnam is considered to have the potential to develop the music market, with enough conditions and facilities to carry out large, international music performances.

 However, nowadays copyright infringement is widely discovered on social networking platforms. Many acts of copyright infringement of musical works are carried out through acts of appropriation and impersonation of authors and rights owners; copying, publishing, distributing works, modifying works without the consent of the author or owner, causing significant damage to rights holders, and also causing many difficulties for law enforcement agencies. management and enforcement agencies in detection and handling. For example, the song We of the Future – Son Tung MTP has countless sites that allow free download just a few hours after the singer released it.

Therefore, it is necessary to apply technological measures to protect copyright in the digital environment according to the provisions of law, and we need to coordinate closely with competent State agencies in handling violations. copyright infringement.

Handling copyright infringement of musical works

3. Penalties for copyright infringement of musical works

Pursuant to Decree 131/2013/ND-CP stipulating administrative penalties for violations as follows:

For the act of copying works without the permission of the copyright owner: Pursuant to Article 18 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP, there are several clauses replaced by Clause 2, Article 3 of Decree 28/ 2017/ND-CP:

– Fine from 15,000,000 VND to 35,000,000 VND

– Remedial measures: Forced removal of copies of infringing works in electronic form, on the network and digital environment, or forced destruction of infringing material evidence.

For acts of using published audio and video recordings for commercial purposes: Pursuant to Article 29 of Decree 131/2013/ND-CP, there are several clauses replaced by Clause 2, Article 3 of Decree 28. /2017/ND-CP:

– Fine from 5,000,000 VND to 10,000,000 VND:

+ For acts of using published audio or video recordings for commercial purposes in restaurants, tourist accommodation establishments, stores, and supermarkets without paying the copyright owner, the owner of related rights according to regulations.

– Fine from 10,000,000 VND to 15,000,000 VND:

+ Using published audio or video recordings for commercial purposes for broadcasting without paying usage fees to copyright owners or related rights owners according to regulations;

+ Using published audio or video recordings for commercial purposes in the field of aviation, public transportation and other commercial business activities without paying usage fees to the owner according to regulations.

– Fine from 15,000,000 VND to 25,000,000 VND:

+ For the act of using published audio or video recordings for commercial purposes in karaoke service businesses, postal and telecommunications services, or digital environments without paying the owner for use. Owner of copyright and related rights according to regulations.

– Remedial measures: Forced removal of copies of audio and video recordings in electronic form, on the network and digital environment for specified acts.

Above is VCD’s article: handling copyright infringement of musical works. Hope it helps you.