Karaoke tracks for benefit of non-profit

[cafn8ed]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California

Thank you in advance. I'm affiliated with the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and would like to create a CD of some of our regular members singing karaoke tracks. The tracks are already owned by our karaoke host; we would probably make about 50 copies of the CD to start, and depending on demand, it's possible (though not probable) that another 50 would be run later. The CD's would only be sold to members and all proceeds would benefit the Susan G. Koman Foundation. What, if anything, do I need to do to ensure we're not violating any copyright laws?

Thanks again,
--D.M.

 

[FlyingRon]

There are two issues here. First off, you owe mechanical licensing on each copy of each song made. This is fairly straight forward. You pay the minimum statutory rate (since the minimum is 500 copies).

If the underlying Karaoke disk is someone else's, you need to get their permission (master rights) to use their rendition as the background to yours.
There's not statutory compulsory requirement here, they may permit your use, they may charge, or they may outright refuse. You'll need to contact the company that made the disk.

The fact that you are giving the proceeds to charity doesn't make too much of a difference (though it might make getting the master rights easier).