Online Music Rights in Sri Lanka

Описание: Online Music Rights in Sri Lanka: Copyright, Performers, and Producers

Keywords: online music rights Sri Lanka, copyright law Sri Lanka, performers’ rights, producers, CMOs, digital music licensing

In Sri Lanka, online music rights and sound recordings are protected under the Intellectual Property Act, No. 36 of 2003. The law ensures that all music creators and stakeholders, including composers, lyricists, singers, musicians, and producers, have their rights legally safeguarded.

Copyright in Musical Works

Sections 12–14 of the IP Act protect composers and lyricists, granting rights such as:

Reproduction rights – only the creator can reproduce the work.

Distribution and communication rights – share works publicly, including via online streaming platforms.

Performance rights – perform publicly or authorize others to perform online.

Creators automatically hold copyright upon creation, ensuring legal recognition without formal registration.

Stakeholders in musical works include:

Composers & Lyricists

Music Publishers

Arrangers and other creative contributors

Internal link suggestion: Learn more about copyright law in Sri Lanka
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Performers’ Rights

Under Sections 75–79, performers’ rights (neighbouring rights) protect singers and musicians:

Prevent unauthorized recording or reproduction.

Authorize broadcasts, online streaming, and public performances.

Moral rights, including the right to be credited.

These rights ensure fair compensation and proper recognition for live and recorded performances.

Producers and Sound Recording Rights
Sections 70–74 protect sound recording producers:
Rights to reproduce, distribute, and communicate recordings.
Protection against unauthorized uploading or commercial use.
Producers license content from performers and composers to ensure legal distribution and royalty collection.
Internal link suggestion: Read about sound recording rights in Sri Lanka
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Collective Management Organizations (CMOs)

CMOs administer rights on behalf of creators:
License music to online platforms, TV, radio, and public outlets.
Collect and distribute royalties to all stakeholders.
Monitor digital platforms and enforce copyright.
CMOs protect both economic and moral rights, especially in the online music space.
Internal link suggestion: Explore performers’ rights organizations in Sri Lanka
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Online Music and Digital Rights

Digital platforms like YouTube, Spotify, TikTok, and social media make understanding online music rights essential. Rights holders should:
License content for streaming, downloads, and social media sharing.
Ensure royalties are collected from digital platforms.
Enforce rights through takedown notices, civil claims, or criminal action for infringement.
Although Sri Lanka currently lacks platform-specific digital copyright laws, the IP Act provides robust protection for digital music creators.

FAQs on Online Music Rights in Sri Lanka

Q1: What is considered a musical work?
A: Musical works include original songs, lyrics, compositions, and sound recordings created by composers, lyricists, and performers.

Q2: Who can claim performers’ rights?
A: Singers, instrumentalists, and other performers have rights over live and recorded performances, including moral rights to be credited.

Q3: How do CMOs help creators?
A: CMOs license music, collect royalties, and enforce rights, ensuring creators are fairly compensated.

Q4: Can producers monetize recordings legally?
A: Yes, producers hold rights over sound recordings and can license, distribute, and monetize them online.

Q5: Can I share my music legally on social media in Sri Lanka?
A: Yes, through proper licensing and adherence to copyright laws, creators can distribute and monetize music online.

Key Takeaways

Composers, lyricists, performers, producers, and CMOs have legally recognized rights.

Performers’ rights protect singers and musicians in live and recorded works.

CMOs ensure proper licensing, royalty collection, and monitoring of infringement.

Digital platforms must respect copyright, giving creators tools to enforce rights online.

By understanding Sri Lanka’s IP law and online music rights, creators can protect their work, receive fair royalties, and thrive in the digital music industry.