More cash for artists

EU proposes copyright extension 

14 Feb 08 - The proposal is one that'll make Sir Cliff Richard happy, he's one artist who has been campaigning for the changes as it directly affects him.

The EU is proposing that performers should earn copyright fees for 95 years, an extension on the current 50 years. 

If changes aren't made, artists like Sir Cliff, who recorded in the 50's and 60's, could lose their airplay royalties over the next ten years.

"Performing artists should no longer be the poor cousins of the music business" - Charlie McCreevy

The European Union's internal market chief, Charlie McCreevy said today (14 Feb):

"I have not seen or heard a convincing reason why a composer of music should benefit from a term of copyright that extends to the composer's life and 70 years beyond, while the performer should enjoy 50 years, often not even covering his lifetime

"I am proposing that performing artists should no longer be the poor cousins of the music business."

McCreevy told a news conference that many performers who began their careers in their early 20's would get to their 70's, only to see the copyright for their work running out when they would more than likely need the income.


Ruth Barnes