Copyright, one of the 4 classes of intellectual property, protects theexpressionof an idea, not the idea itself. Thus, song lyrics are capable of copyright because it is the expression of an idea. However, each version of those lyrics, acoustic, electronic, etc., has its own copyright and is also protected under the lyrics themselves. Certain artists are highly protective of their work as original art and will not allow any unauthorized use without permission. Artists such as Prince, Bob Dylan, the Beatles, Metallica, and others are well-known for their propensity for issuing "cease and desist" letters for unauthorized use and will take action without hesitation for failing to comply with the cease and desist notice.

The Beastie Boys are arguably the most litigious of all music groups. The late MCA, who died in 2012, stated in his will that he wished that no Beastie Boys music is ever to be used in a commercial. What are the issues in the below case? What argument do the Beastie Boys make regarding licensing?

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