July 17, 2008 13:15

Musicians' royalties set to be extended to 95 years

Beatles songs will soon run out of copyright otherwise

Musicians are set to receive royalties for 95 years after the release of the song, if a new EU proposal becomes law.

Under current legislation, musicians' royalties end 50 years after a song's release, meaning that Cliff Richard and The Beatles will lose the rights to their first releases in 2009 and 2013, respectively.

The plan, which extends this period to 95 years, still needs to be approved by the European Parliament and EU governments before it will become legislation.

The change would be particularly beneficial for session musicians and band members, who may see a massive drop in their income in their twilight years under the 50 years rule.

In contrast, songwriters and their estates retain their rights for 70 years after their deaths.