There are a
growing number of DJ's working illegally. We work closely with music companies,
production houses, distributers and regulary seek professional legal advice on
Australian Copyright Law.
In almost all situations it is illegal to
play music from anything but the original CD.
This means that if your
DJ uses 'copies' or plays music from a computer, they are probably breaking the
law. It is that simple, and when these types of DJ's are confronted, they simply
state that 'every one else does it'. Well, thats means lots of people are
breaking the law. Ignorance is not an excuse. Fines can start at $90000 (yes
thats ninety thousand dollars), confiscation of all equipment and music, and
jail terms of 5 years or more. That all sounds pretty bad doesn't it?.
We
have heard of DJ businesses that get a booking for a function, and the fee or a
deposit is paid. The DJ then sets up on the day of the function in a room that
has been completly set-up with flowers and balloons etc, and when he or she is
ready, the law enforcement arrive. If they find anything illegal, its goodbye
DJ.
The problems don't stop there either. These law enforcers even
randomly drop in to actual events and functions just to do spot checks. Once
again, if the DJ has anything they are not supposed to (ie: anything other than
original CD's), then you can say goodbye to your DJ, your wedding or party, and
any happy memories you thought you were going to have.
The venue licencee
is also at risk. The licencee can be fined thousands of dollars plus loss of
licence. If your are a licencee, please consult with your entertainer(s) to
ensure they are legal.
I am sorry that I have to tell you this, but these
are the facts.
There are a small number of music production companies now
distributing music for use on a computer. These systems are VERY expensive, and
cost thousands of dollars, and also have monthly ongoing costs. We investigate
these systems as they become available, and would need to charge over $1000 for
your function, party or wedding just to cover costs of having one of these
'legal' computer based systems.
White-Lightning-Entertainment comply with Australian Music copyright laws,
ensuring you peace of mind.
Email: info@white-lightning-entertainment.com
