Copyright Act of 1976: Primary federal copyright law that governs music rights, establishing basic protections for musical works and sound recordings
Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA): Federal law addressing digital copyright issues, including online music distribution and anti-circumvention provisions
Music Modernization Act 2018: Updates music licensing legislation for the digital age, improving how music rights holders are paid and streamlining the licensing system
Fair Labor Standards Act: Federal law establishing wage, hour, and employment standards that may affect artist contracts and compensation
Digital Performance Right in Sound Recordings Act: Establishes copyright holders' rights for digital audio transmissions and streaming services
SAG-AFTRA Regulations: Union regulations affecting performers' rights, minimum compensation, and working conditions in the entertainment industry
American Federation of Musicians Requirements: Union rules governing musicians' working conditions, minimum rates, and contractual obligations
California Seven-Year Rule: State law limiting personal service contracts to seven years, particularly relevant for long-term music contracts in California
Sherman Antitrust Act: Federal antitrust law affecting industry competition and potentially impacting exclusive dealing provisions in music contracts
Sound Recording Act: Federal law establishing copyright protection for sound recordings and defining rights of recording artists
Mechanical Licensing Regulations: Rules governing the licensing of musical compositions for reproduction and distribution, including statutory rates
Right of Publicity Laws: State-specific laws protecting artists' rights to control and profit from the commercial use of their name, image, and likeness
Digital Performance Rights Act: Legislation establishing performance rights and royalty obligations for digital music services
Statute of Frauds: State contract law requiring certain agreements to be in writing to be enforceable, particularly relevant for long-term music contracts
Section 203 Copyright Act: Provides termination rights allowing artists to reclaim their copyright interests 35 years after transfer
