leonardcohenforum.com

I've written and recorded a gentle parody of "I'm Your Man" and want to get permission to publish it on iTunes and include it on my album. Who can I ask? Your help greatly appreciated.

Sydney, Australia

Hi Hobbes ~

If you need permission, I believe you would request permission from SONY Corporation. If not, someone will be along soon enough to correct me.

Does iTunes men that you're trying to sell it? People do covers of Leonard's songs all the time without requesting permission. This would seem even one step further away from that, so I'm not sure if it's even required, at least if you don't intend to sell downloads of it. [The covers I'm referring to here I've seen on YouTube, though, and many have recorded covers, as well... and I'm unfamiliar with how iTunes works... obviously . I've never utilized it.]

Someone may be along shortly to colour me wrong on all this... and I sure don't want to mislead you. Best of luck in your endeavour. I'd enjoy hearing a parody of his song. Welcome to the Forum in any case .


~ Lizzy

Hi Lizzy

Thanks for taking the time to answer!

I will write to Sony, as soon as I can find out exactly where to write to. I wasn't sure whether it was illegal to parody someone else's song or not. I'd be willing to do a deal with Leonard Cohen on it - not that I'm expecting to make millions, but it's the polite thing to do. I am about to have an album released in the US and this song is on it, but if you'd like to hear it in advance, you can sent me your email address privately and I will send it to you. I promise you'll have a little laugh over it - it's a bit naughty!

Nicole