Pono Ranch’s Playlist Could Lead to a Major Legal Gig!

Pono Ranch, an indoor-outdoor bar known for its music scene, has found itself in a legal remix as the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) is suing them for copyright infringement. Apparently, the bar has been serving up a side of Radiohead’s “Creep” and Stone Temple Pilots’ “Plush” without actually paying for the privilege. It turns out, jamming out to those nostalgic tunes might have a price tag after all!

ASCAP claims they reached out to Pono Ranch several times over the years, trying to work out a licensing deal that would allow the venue to legally play members’ music. But their calls seem to have gone unanswered more often than a college student’s phone at 2 AM. Now, they’re putting their foot down and taking the bar to court. Imagine how awkward it’d be if the judge starts humming “Plush” mid-trial—yikes!

It’s a tough reminder for business owners: music adds serious vibes to your establishment, but it’s crucial to legally license those tunes. After all, songwriters rely on licensing fees to put food on their tables. So, what do you think? Should venue owners be held to stricter standards, or do they deserve a little grace when it comes to the wild world of music licensing? Let’s hear your thoughts!

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