Phoenix (music) Supports Free Use

Phoenix , a band represented by the Australian label Liberation Records, put out a surprising statement last month in favor of fair use. The statement was surprising because Liberation Records had been involved in some hyper-aggressive over-enforcement of copyrights in Phoenix's music.

In particular, Liberation got some notoriety in Copyfight circles for trying to sue Larry Lessig over fair use. Lessig counter-filed, claiming fair use and seeking damages. Liberation backed down, and even paid a small settlement. Apparently, the label acted without the consent of (and even contrary to the interests of) the band, who blogged that they were upset to find out about the label's actions, and that they approved of fans' use of their song "Lisztomania."

I was pleased to see that the band's statement recognized the "illustrative use of our music for educational purposes" - a clear fair use statement - as well as directly encouraging fans.

we encourage people getting inspired and making their own versions of our songs and videos and posting the result online.

It's almost like artists supported creative expression. How about that. (h/t Mike Masnick on Techdirt, where I saw this first)