Release Date

21 May, 2009

Runtime

01:05: (HH:MM)

Synopsis

This is a Sampling Sport

Copyright Criminals examines the creative and commercial value of musical sampling, including the related debates over artistic expression, copyright law, and (of course) money. This documentary traces the rise of hip-hop from the urban streets of New York to its current status as a multibillion-dollar industry. For more than thirty years, innovative hip-hop performers and producers have been re-using portions of previously recorded music in new, otherwise original compositions. When lawyers and record companies got involved, what was once referred to as a “borrowed melody” became a “copyright infringement.” The film showcases many of hip-hop music’s founding figures like Public Enemy, De La Soul, and Digital Underground—while also featuring emerging hip-hop artists from record labels Definitive Jux, Rhymesayers, Ninja Tune, and more.

Original Title

Copyright Criminals

Photos

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Actors

Aesop Rock

George Clinton

Chuck D

El-P

Sage Francis

Pam the Funsktress

Bobbito Garcia

Miho Hatori

Shock G

Mix Master Mike

Prefuse 73

DJ Q-Bert

Pete Rock

Hank Shocklee

DJ Spooky

Clyde Stubblefield

Saul Williams

Crew