Music is everywhere and in everything, from restaurants to ringtones, games, and videos. And music is powered by a vast creative community, and that community is enabled by intellectual property (IP) rights, including copyrights, trademarks, and patents.
Whether it’s a video clip, commercial, television show, movie, or game, every soundtrack uses the copyrightable work of a composer and performer(s), it is likely that the composer or performer also uses some form of patented technology to bring the work to life, such as microphones, synthesizers, electronic instruments, effect pedals, and recording software. Each of these creative and innovative endeavors likely has a brand it may protect using trademarks.
This universal content is certainly not limited with respect to IP; it offers a wide range of career paths for those in the creative community and beyond. Indeed, music would not exist without singers, songwriters, musicians, sound engineers, and producers, but there are many more options that contribute to this vibrant community. This year’s case study series highlights some of the roles available.
From publishers to educators and talent agents to lawyers, IP enables the creative community that connects our society and drives our economy. According to the International Intellectual Property Alliance’s Copyright Industries in the U.S. Economy: The 2024 Report, the core copyright industries—which include music, books, motion pictures, radio and television broadcasting, computer software, newspapers, video games, and periodicals and journals— added $2.09 trillion to the U.S. economy.
Furthermore, these industries are consistently growing faster than the U.S. economy, at 9.23% compared to 3.41% for the entire U.S. economy, and directly employ 11.6 million people. The creative community also contributes billions to local economies and supports jobs in various industries, including tourism, hospitality, and food services.
In celebration of World IP Day 2025, the Chamber is honored to share case studies that highlight the vital role of IP, as told by those who rely on it.
Art Could Survive, But Artists Won't: Why Everything Stems From IP
Todd Herreman wore several hats throughout his career, including performer, composer, producer, and educator. He learned early that adaptability is key to a sustainable career in the music industry, riding the wave of digital technology as he progressed and grew. But one thing remained true: IP rights are crucial for creators.
Entrepreneurship and Education: The Power of IP
Amanda Colleen Williams grew up in the music industry. Her father was a hit songwriter who worked with some of country music's biggest stars in the 1990s. Following in his footsteps, Amanda became a singer-songwriter and entrepreneur, and she uses her talents to teach and reach students and CEOs alike through original programs like Songpreneurs and Ready, Set, Write™.
American Roots Run Deep: The Intersection of IP, Music, and Artist Management
Geoff Turner started on the road to becoming a talent agent while he was performing with bands in college. Now, he manages American Roots artists for one of the largest talent agencies. As part of the music ecosystem, Geoff brings the performers and their fans together, enabling greater connections across communities and around the world.
IP Connects Communities: How Publishing Connects Musicians to the Music
Could you imagine a world without music? From schools to communities and streaming to venues, music is embedded in every aspect of our lives and draws us closer together. Kathy Fernandes is a former teacher who works to connect music ensembles with the music they love, as well as introducing them to modern composers and arrangers.
Exploring the World Using a Clarinet: How IP Enables Composers and Educators
Although many do not view educators or part-time composers as having a career in music, Dr. Eric Mandate disagrees. Eric is a professor, composer, and clarinetist, and a leading expert in clarinet extended performance techniques. Becoming a professor early in his career gave him the freedom to take chances and explore music in ways he otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do.
Music’s Microeconomies: How IP Empowers Economic Communities
The creative community reaches far beyond the musicians, writers, actors, artists, and dancers we know and love. Anjlee Khurana is a lawyer and a member of the music ecosystem. She has dedicated much of her career to guiding, teaching, and helping others in the creative community who are also trying to make a living using their passion.
Knowing Your Value: IP and the Gig Economy
How can you determine the value of something so integral to everyday life as music? Miranda Mulholland says you start with intellectual property. The Canadian musician is also an educator, producer, composer, writer, and business owner who founded her own label and music festivals. But Miranda has a particular passion for educating creators, policymakers, and others about IP.
