Song Rights in Movies

Whats the law on using songs in movies you make? Do you have to get permission from the copyright holder or is there a fair use thing?

I believe it's fair use as long as it's for personal use and not for sale.

No I meant something for I would be selling. I know of royalty free music but have yet to find any that is actually free. The royalty free music is always for sale.

You'll have to get their permission to use their songs. I've never actually had to do this, but I've heard most people are pretty nice about letting you use their music, maybe you'll have to pay a small fee. I guess it all depends on whose music you want to use. I don't think there are any set rules, it's whatever the musicians want and what you agree upon. If it's a smaller band or whatever they might be excited to be a part of your film. They're getting extra exposure from it.

Yes permission (in writing) and royalties for each and every sale.