Using recording artist music in a dvd

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

I'm creating a DVD of my wife's class reunion and setting music to it from professional recording artists. This dvd will be sent (free) to about 50 class members. Is there a legal issue in doing this that I need to be aware of?

FlyingRon responded to your abbreviated post.

The issue is not whether it will be "free" but whether there will be "copying." Copying copyrighted works without permission is infringing on the rights of the copyright holder. See FlyingRon's response for greater detail.

(and you handled the "name of state" line well )