New rules introduced today will see recorded performers and musicians benefit from an extended length of copyright term in the UK.
Sound recordings and performers rights in sound recordings have increased from 50 to 70 years - an EU directive approved in 2011 that is implemented today by the UK Government.
After 50 years following publication of their sound recordings, performers and musicians will also benefit from some additional new measures including:
* A "session fund" paying many performers (such as session musicians) 20 per cent of revenues from sales of their recordings;
* A "clean slate" provision, whereby a producer may not make deductions from payments to performers (such as advances of royalties) from publication of a recording; and;
* A "use it or lose it" clause - which allows performers and musicians to claim back their performance rights in sound recordings if they are not being commercially exploited.
The Minister for Intellectual Property, Lord Younger, said: "The new rules bring lasting benefits for our world class recording artists. These changes demonstrate the Government`s ongoing commitment to, and support for, our creative industries - who are worth billions to our economy.
"Artists who performed on sound recordings will benefit from this extension of copyright protection from 50 to 70 years. The changes should help ensure that musicians are rewarded for their creativity and hard work throughout their careers."
Jo Dipple, Chief Executive, UK Music said: "UK Music welcomes today's announcement on extending the term of copyright for sound recordings. We are pleased that the Government is implementing changes that acknowledge the importance of copyright to performers and record companies. This change will mean creators can rightfully continue to make a living from their intellectual property and works."
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