MUSIC AND SOUND EFFECTS

Only ‘Royalty Free’ Music and Sound Effects can be used.

This is the number one reason why videos are rejected and the number one reason why there is so much talk about copyright infringement. Put simply, you should only use content that you have created yourself or for which you have the necessary rights. If you didn’t originally create the music or special effects, you need to get permission from the copyright owner that did…Even if it was purchased. That is called a License.

SONY Music, being one of the largest record labels in the world, must set the highest standards when it comes to copyright compliance and understandably so. Therefore, as supporters of the SONY family, it is our responsibility to honor this policy.

Not all music on the Internet is free. Many advertise that it’s “royalty free” but only after you buy the license. DO NOT BUY ROYALTY FREE MUSIC WITHOUT CHECKING WITH THE DIRECTOR FIRST – THIS MIGHT SAVE YOU MONEY. Many sites claim their music is “royalty-free” but when you read the fine print, you’ll discover that it only applies to personal use or personal websites. Don’t be afraid to ask … We cannot emphasize that enough.

True “Royalty Free” Links

The Director has a good friend, Matt, who has compiled a list of truly FREE ”royalty free” music links for our community to use: WhoisMatt.com. No, you won’t find Madonna or the Black Eyed Peas on that list but that’s the nature of the business. Just so you know … The entire first season of the Spotlight was produced with “royalty free” music. There was never one mention that the music was terrible. As a matter of fact, there were a couple of comments to the contrary.

Should you select music from Matt’s list, please be sure to issue the proper credits to the artist or follow any specific instructions and remember to get a copy of the license and include it with your video submission. While you’re are there, be sure to give Matt a shout-out on Twitter or Facebook.

PlayStation®HOME Music and Sound Effects

Your ARE allowed to record both music and sound effects that  broadcast in HOME but only for use in the video submitted to PSTALENT. This doesn’t give you the right to use music for projects unrelated to Machinima broadcasting or for projects outside of HOME.

You are NOT allowed to download or record music that is commercially playing in HOME in circumstances that include;

1. Developer video commercials or special presentations;

2. The LOOT™ Entertainment On Demand (EOD) system and/or;

3. Any theaters, including the Community Theater.

Much of that content was purchased by professional production companies who have obtained a license for single use only.

HOME Music for Contests

If you are planning on entering a contest sponsored by someone other than an affiliate of SONY, like an international competition related to Machinima or Gaming, please let us know. Not only will we make an effort to support your music choices, but you might even gain a sponsor.   If at any time you are unsure or question the content, ask. We’ll make a strong effort to help you.

Sony Creative Software “Royalty Free” Music and Sound Effects

If you are considering building your own collection of “royalty free” music, sound effects or even producing your own music, we strongly recommend taking a tour of the many resources offered by our friends at SONY Creative Software: Sony Loops and Samples

And finally, remember this … The only true “royalty free” music is music that you create; your voice, your lyrics, your instruments, you!