At least ’tis the season to be thinking about the music for your holiday campaign. Which songs are public domain? Which have “It’s Complicated” as their relationship status? Which can we write new lyrics for?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet: On the most basic level, if it was published before 1927, it’s very possibly in the public domain. But not always. And remember that even if a composition is in the public domain, arrangements can still be copyrighted. Confused? Don’t be. You have us to help you sort it out. Reply to this email or call us to make your holiday dreams come true. Well, not that one dream about the egg nog and Dominick the Donkey. You’re on your own there.
Here are a few examples of some classics and their statuses:
- Jingle Bells – Public Domain
- Deck the Halls – Public Domain
- Carol of the Bells – It’s Complicated (music PD, lyrics under copyright)
- Little Drummer Boy – Under Copyright
- Feliz Navidad – José Feliciano will personally beat your ass, and then sue you
Want to learn more? Give us a call or drop us a line.