Warner Chappell Music apologizes to pearLyrics’ author
Lyrics Dustup Ends in Apology [wired.com]
Music publisher Warner Chappell is attempting at dampening the bad PR that resulted after criticism spread around the Web this past week.
pearLyrics’ author Walter Ritter willingly took down his application last week after pressure from Warner Chappell Music, but still felt his program wasn’t breaking any laws. Afterall, the lyrics are already out there on the net.
Warner Chappell reveals that their letter wasn’t an accusation, but rather an inquiry. They’re also now willing to work with Ritter to come up with ideas on how to create a pearLyrics-like application that is sanctioned by music publishers.
We’ll see how that pans out.
I’d also like to mention that at the end of the article, there’s a clarification on the MPA stance on shutting down lyrics sites.
Beginning in January, the Music Publishers Association, of which Warner Chappell is a member, will begin pursuing a campaign against 5 to 6 such companies, according to MPA CEO Lauren Keiser.
“Lost revenue for rights holders is in the millions,” said Keiser, “We’re not going after fan clubs, but websites that make money.”
Does this mean that all the small lyrics sites can go on operating as usual? I wouldn’t bet on that.
Wired article found via Slashdot: Warner Chappell Apology For PearLyrics