Singstealer Vs Bandleader Analysis

630 Words3 Pages
Arbitration Singstealer v. Bandleader Factual Summary Johnny Singstealer, the copyright holder of the song, “Happy Birthday to You”, is suing Bobby Bandleader, Owner of Bobby’s Bistro, for unauthorized use of his song (copyright abuse) and damages totaling 1 million dollars. Singstealers claim is that he was never approached by Bobby Bandleader for authorization to use his song and only recently did he actually find out about the infringement. Bobby Bandleader claims that he has been singing this song for 20 years in his restaurant and should not have to pay for the use of the song or damages because some of the lyrics were changed. He claims that it is not the same song as “Happy Birthday to You” and as such should not have to pay to sing it. Legal Issues Presented The legal issue presented is whether or not Johnny Singstealer is entitled to damages of 1 million dollars for royalties both past and present for unauthorized use of his song. Secondly, what if any licensing fees would be if a licensing agreement can be reached. Legal Concepts Johnny Singstealer’s legal strategy:…show more content…
“Beyond Measure.” Attaché. January 2002.) Bobby Bandleader sang “Happy Birthday to You” on numerous occasions over the past 20 years at his place of employment, Bobby’s Bistro. Bobby’s Bistro is a restaurant and therefore is considered a public place. Much of Bobby’s revenue is due to the popularity of the song. Since Bobby Bandleader is making money on this song he should have to pay royalties and a licensing fee for any further use of the

More about Singstealer Vs Bandleader Analysis

Open Document