Explores the development of nineteenth-century performance copyright laws which shape how we define and value drama and music.

This is a leading text on the protection of performers' rights and has been updated to cover new legislation, case law and the impact of the Internet.

Congress is considering legislation that would expand copyright protection for sound recordings. In particular, the proposed Performance Rights Act would eliminate an exemption that currently allows analog, non-subscription AM and FM radio to broadcast a sound recording without acquiring permission from and paying a royalty to the copyright holder, performers, and musicians. This report reviewed: (1) the current economic challenges facing the recording and broadcast radio industries; (2) the benefits both industries receive from their current relationship; (3) the potential effects of the proposed act on the broadcast radio industry; and (4) the potential effects of the proposed act on the recording industry. Charts and tables.

The Performance Rights Act and parity among music delivery platforms : hearing before the Committee on the Judiciary, United States Senate, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, first session, August 4, 2009.