Quote:
Originally posted by The Pro:
One more thing needs to be added to this discussion: any "song" which does not include the melody is not copyrightable in the US. In fact, I can go right now a print out the chords to "As Time Goes By", with the song title printed boldly at the top, and sell them a dime a copy with no legal restrictions at all. Many websites offer such. So what's the big deal about styles or even midi files and copyrights? To my knowledge, if it doesn't include the melody it's mine and yours and everyone's to use freely. Not so?


Not really.
Wouldn’t it be the case that if you use a midi file or a style that uses or tries to use the same type of sounds and accompaniment as the original song, even though the style or midi song does not have a melody, it will be copyright infringement?

If I were to arrange a popular song today in to a midi file with out the melody and put it on the internet for sale, could I do so with out any legal implications?


Regarding styles, if the keyboard manufacturers can show that they have copyright to the styles, then I would think that they would have the right to prevent any modifications of the work. Don’t they have the right to control derivative works?
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