Reading Eminem's Record Contracts:
The deadline to resolve the media law dispute between Eminem, his record label and
Apple Inc is drawing
close. The impending lawsuit could change the legal landscape of
recording contracts and any distribution agreements brokered by
them due to the interpretation of the rights granted under
traditional recording and distribution contracts.
iTunes' Rights to Digitally Distribute:
The claim has arisen because iTunes have been selling Eminem
tracks licenced to them under a distribution agreement with Aftermath (his record
company) but Eminem states that his recording agreement
only authorised the sale of CD's or other physical copies of his
music so downloads are unauthorised
copies. Early signs indicate that Eminem is going to be
successful - so rather than getting the usual 6 pence per download
he may be in line for the a great deal more.
The last time Apple and Eminem clashed over an unauthorised use
of his music on an advert (iPod) they had to settle out of
court.