Universal suing companies that make ‘mix tapes’ for prison inmates

Universal Music Group has filed a lawsuit alleging copyright infringement on the part of companies that sell "mix tapes" to be delivered to prison inmates. The complaint names multiple businesses in Missouri, Delaware and Pennsylvania, which sell "care packages" to the friends and family members of prisoners. The gifts are then delivered to the incarcerated loved ones, and may include food, toiletries, clothing, shoes and electronics. As a part of the service, these companies allegedly offer to make compilations of the inmates' favorite songs, by artists such as Eminem, LL Cool J, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, the Jackson Five and James Brown. 

Universal argues that, while the defendants claim to reduce the spread of contraband in the correctional system, the mix tapes are themselves illegal. 

"Mix tapes are a form of recorded music in which DJs combine (or 'mix') tracks, often recorded by different artists, onto a single CD, sometimes creating overlaps and fades between songs, and/or reflecting a common theme or mood," reads the suit. "Such so-called 'mix tapes,' unless authorized by the copyright owner or owner of corresponding state law rights, are nothing more than collections of infringing, piratical compilations of copyrighted or otherwise legally protected sound recordings and copyrighted musical composition."

According to court documents, Universal is seeking the maximum possible damages — $150,000 for each copyright that was violated.

This story illustrates that the nuances of copyright law may not always be clear to professionals doing business on the ground, sometimes leading to unexpected litigation. If your work involves issues of intellectual property and copyright management, it is critical that you consult with an experienced business attorney who can ensure your legal interests are protected. 

Categorised in: Intellectual Property Law

This post was written by multi_admin