"Though the lawsuit does not specify an amount in damages, Pub 52 could be on the hook for up to $150,000 per song, or up to $1,050,000 for seven songs. Penalties for copyright infringement can range from $750 per work infringed up to $150,000 in damages if it is found to be willful infringement, according to the U.S. copyright Law.
A public performance of music includes any music played outside a normal circle of friends and family, according to U.S. copyright law.
Every business or organization must receive permission from the copyright owners of the music they are playing before playing it publicly.
“When we find out that a business is performing music and operating without a music license, we see this as an opportunity to educate business owners on the music licensing process,” Thomas said.
