Can I quote from a song? - Writers Forum

terrib · 12-10-2006, 04:12 PM

In my book, my character sings a song and I quote the lyrics, is that ok?

Thanks Terri

imrhati · 12-10-2006, 04:37 PM

No its not okay. To gain the rghts to be able to qoute the song you need to ask the artist and whatever studio they're with. Then they will usualy name a price.

Winged Sandals · 12-10-2006, 04:38 PM

Yep. Your best bet would probably be to make up your own lyrics.

gagoots · 12-11-2006, 02:20 AM

What about fair use?
What about the story mentions a character was listening to a certain song?

Mike C · 12-11-2006, 05:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gagoots

What about fair use?
What about the story mentions a character was listening to a certain song?

Fair use extends to titles only. You can mention the title, or allude to the lyrics, but you can't quote them word for word - without paying. Last person I know who used lyrics had to pay $500 per line quoted.

Unless you have permissions sorted up-front, most agents are likely to reject or tell you to remove them anyway.

mammamaia · 12-11-2006, 12:53 PM

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