Candidates Shouldn’t “Cruz” Through Political Campaigns: Why asking for permission to use music is becoming so important on the campaign trail, 16 J. Marshall Rev. Intell. Prop. L. 457 (2017)

Authors

Courtney Willits

Abstract

Music has always been used by candidates running for political office as a way to advertise themselves to potential voters. Throughout the years, a battle between political candidates and musicians has grown due to problems caused by music licensing. Currently, an issue in law exists between politicians who obtain proper music licenses versus musicians who have a right of publicity, stating they do not want to be associated with certain candidates' political views. This comment analyzes the recent copyright case against former 2016 presidential candidate Ted Cruz, and the role it could play in this area of law. Additionally, this comment proposes a few solutions that would clear up the issue created by music licensing in the political realm.

Recommended Citation

Courtney Willits, Candidates Shouldn’t “Cruz” Through Political Campaigns: Why asking for permission to use music is becoming so important on the campaign trail, 16 J. Marshall Rev. Intell. Prop. L. 457 (2017)