>I know part of the "Name
>that sample" game was to
>be a statement about the
>current state of sampling, but
>is there a solution for
>today's sampling woes.

The main solution is to lobby Congress to amend the Copyright ACt of 1976, so it will include certain forms of sampling under the fair use provision (Section 107). I don't think straight looping (of, say, four bars) will EVER be considered eligible for fair use, but certain forms of sampling that only utilize minute portions of a composition, in my mind, should be eligible for a fair use "exemption"...but we have to convince Congress of that.

Like I said, those who are serious about this issue, hit me on the e-mail (alanpage@starpower.net). Particularly those who are in, or plan to enroll in, law school.

>Like what would it take? Would
>every record label have to
>flex its muscles?

A lot of labels own the catalogs to much of the music which is sampled...in that sense, it might not necessarily be in their interest to have the copyright law modified

> Would every
>artist need to make it
>their top priority?

It would help tremendously, particularly if artists of many different genres who sample join hip-hop heads in the struggle (Beck, for example, samples). Artists were able to lobby for a repeal of the provision to the Copyright Act which eliminated the right to reversion (I would define that, but it would take forever).

>Is it just a question of
>promotion? I mean if we
>got MTV news, all the
>music mags, internet sites talking
>about sampling wouldnt it bring
>up the public awareness about
>the issue? make it less
>shady.

Any press bringing light to this issue would be good. If folks want to, write in to some of these music news sites and ask them to do stories on this matter (example: "I am concerned about the fact that hip-hop artists are hindered from freely creating their art because the Copyright Act does not recognize sampling as fair use. Would you consider doing a story interviewing hip-hop producers on how the law hinders them in the pursuit of their art?"). Keep a file of any stories which appear. Writing any of your local media outlets is an idea as well, although I think local publications which focus on music are more likely to respond.

>Or is this just going to
>be one of the those
>things that isnt going to
>change?

ANYTHING can be changed if enough people organize to change it. Believe me.

Again, serious parties concerned about this issue, holla on the e-mail.

Thoughtfully yours,

Spirit

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Peace,

Spirit (Alan)
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