Fragmented Music Copyright Protection: A Better Arrangement

Authors

• Matthew B. Goldman, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

Abstract

The note explores the challenges of music copyright law, particularly in determining the protectability of fragmented elements within musical works. It argues that by applying doctrinal tools such as the idea-expression distinction, merger, scenes a faire, and thin copyright, courts can better balance the protection of original expression with the need to allow future creativity. The analysis focuses on two key cases, Skidmore v. Led Zeppelin and Gray v. Perry, to illustrate how these tools can be effectively used to resolve music copyright disputes.

Disciplines

Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law | Intellectual Property Law | Law

Recommended Citation

Matthew B. Goldman, Fragmented Music Copyright Protection: A Better Arrangement, 40 Cardozo Arts & Ent. L.J. 729 (2023).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cardozoaelj/vol40/iss3/6