music copyright

[croz]

What is the name of your state? Illinois

I am considering starting a company in which I create movies for people from their still photographs and home videos and produce them over a music soundtrack. I have researched other companies that do this type of service, and they all say that if the customer provides the music (ie, a cd they have purchased) and that if a waiver is signed stating that the final video is for "home use only", that I (my company) am not guilty of copyright infringement? Is this true? How would I phrase a short disclaimer on my customer contract to protect myself and my company from any legal action?

thank you

 

[divgradcurl]

that I (my company) am not guilty of copyright infringement

This is not correct. You are creating a derivative work; unless you have permission from the copyright owner, this is infringement. Buying a CD gives you a license to "perform" the music (but not in public or for profit), but does not allow you to create derivative works.

To protect yourself, you will either need licenses to use the music, or give them silent movies...