Do law and art mix?
What does stealing sound like?
Can you own a sound?
Announcing the Documentary Trailer Debut of COPYRIGHT CRIMINALS: click here to view
Filmmakers Benjamin Franzen and Kembrew McLeod proudly announce the debut of the trailer for Copyright Criminals: This Is a Sampling Sport, a new documentary about digital sampling's head-on collision with copyright law.
This trailer debut will be followed by a national screening tour of cities, college campuses, and film festivals beginning in Spring 2009 and continuing through 2010.
Visit copyrightcriminals.com for screening dates (to be announced), locations, and to watch the trailer now.
Copyright Criminals features many of Hip Hop music's celebrated figures -- including Public Enemy, De La Soul, the Beastie Boys, and Digital Underground -- as well as emerging artists from record labels Definitive Jux, Rhymesayers, Ninja Tune, and more. The documentary also provides an in-depth look at artists who have been sampled, such as James Brown's former drummer Clyde Stubblefield, as well as commentary by another highly sampled musician, Funk legend George Clinton.
As artists find ever more inventive ways to insert old influences into new material, this documentary asks a critical question, on behalf of an entire creative community:
Can you own a sound?
Featuring:
Harry Allen
Matt Black
Jeff Chang
Chuck D
George Clinton
De La Soul
DJ Qbert
DJ Spooky
Eclectic Method
El-P
Eyedea & Abilities
Sage Francis
Bobbito Garcia
Miho Hatori
Mark Hosler
Don Joyce
Matmos
Richard McGuire
Mix Master Mike
Mr. Len
Pam the Funkstress
Prefuse 73
RJD2
Aesop Rock
Pete Rock
Scanner
Shock G
Hank Shocklee
Clyde Stubblefield
Saul Williams
Nigerian Afrobeat's artist Jhaysings is making waves once again with the release of his latest single, "Emotions" Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Jhaysings has spent the last seven years building a name for himself as a singer, songwriter, producer, and mix engineer. His dedication to developing a unique sound has earned him recognition from…See More
The vibrant sounds of the Latin American and Haitian music scenes are about to converge in an exhilarating new single: **"Latin Nights"** by Shaney Poo. This track not only showcases the diverse rhythms of Latin music but also pays homage to the rich cultural tapestry of the Haitian community. A Fusion of Sounds"Latin Nights" is a celebration of the rich musical heritages that define both Latin and Haitian cultures. With infectious beats and dynamic melodies, Shaney Poo invites listeners on a…See More
Detroit-born neo-soul artist Jewelz Patrick has released his latest R&B soulful pop single, "From Another Lifetime," which dropped February 2nd, 2026. The track showcases Patrick's signature blend of neo-soul, funk, and jazz hop elements that have become his musical trademark."From Another Lifetime" is a star-crossed love story told across past, present,…See More