Q&A: What are the copyright issues involved with using music in an independent, non-commercial movie?

Question by m-cha: What are the copyright issues involved with using music in an independent, non-commercial movie?
I’m in the process of filming an independent movie that I’ll be using as part of my applications to USC, UCLA, and NYU film schools. However, I’m not sure if the soundtrack I have planned will be OK to use. Do I need to get permission from the record companies that represent these bands in order to use the music in my movie, even though I won’t be making any money from it? What if I enter it into contests like film festivals, etc.? Then would I need to get permission?

Best answer:

Answer by jessicareilly
I have had a friend who has done that and they had to buy the song they wanted to use

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