Michael Morris moderated a panel discussion on legal issues important to members of the music industry, hosted Sept. 10 on Zoom by the California Copyright Conference.

The title of the session was “Law, Music, And You: A Discussion Of Current Legal Issues And Legislation In The Music Industry And How It May Affect You.”

Joining Mr. Morris as panelists was: Jacqueline C. Charlesworth, Esq., Partner, Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz; Thomas Clees, Senior Vice President, Federal Public Policy at Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA); Timothy A. Cohan, Esq., Chief Counsel, peermusic; and Rick Marshall, General Counsel, The Mechanical Licensing Collective.

The panel discussed legal developments and legislation concerning music rights, including:

  • the recent Copyright Office ruling regarding the intersection of termination rights, the derivative works exception, and the statutory mechanical blanket license in connection with mechanical streaming royalties;
  • the status of the “NO FAKES Act” legislation and state law protections (e.g., the” ELVIS Act)” and how they impact sound recordings;
  • Artificial Intelligence developments in music publishing, including discussion of high-profile litigation cases, fair use, input (i.e. prompts), etc.; and
  • The Music Modernization Act (MMA) – five years later, where are we now?
  • Registration is free for CCC members, and $5 for others.
Michael has blended his tax law expertise with his passion for music and entertainment, resulting in a practice that is unique.

As a former trial lawyer for the IRS and a Certified Specialist in Taxation Law, Michael provides insightful resolutions to his clients’ complicated tax, estate, and business transaction issues. In the entertainment industry, Michael has developed a strong reputation for providing valuable and effective business solutions in areas such as copyright and contractual matters.

Although Michael’s core competency is within the tax arena and entertainment, he has developed significant expertise covering a wide range of businesses. His diverse client base includes major studio executives, recording artists (including Grammy winners), production companies, film and TV composers, talent agencies, payroll companies, skin healthcare companies, postproduction houses, software companies, and an award-winning winery.