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For Brands, Using Music in Social Posts Has Never Been Riskier. Here’s How to Help Avoid Being Sued (Guest Column)

Here's how brands can avoid lawsuits for using copyrighted music in social media posts, according to a new op-ed that looks at the growing problem.

Below, we examine the rising tide of recent lawsuits and other legal action taken against brands by music rightsholders and outline key takeaways to help avoid infringing uses and ensure that artists are properly compensated for their work. Most recently, Warner Music Group (WMG) sued Crumbl and Designer Brands Inc., the parent company of DSW Shoe Warehouse, under similar theories. While a number of these cases were just recently filed, and others ultimately settled out of court or appear to be moving towards settlement, there is no question that they are part of a fast-growing trend, and provide a glimpse into the mindset, and tactics, of rights holders with respect to unauthorized music use on social media platforms.

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