Quoting lyrics in a script requires careful consideration to avoid copyright infringement and ensure clarity for both the reader and the performer. The method you choose depends on several factors, including the context of the scene, the extent of the lyric quote, and the overall style of your script.
How to Properly Quote Lyrics in Your Script
There's no single, universally accepted method, but here are some best practices:
1. Short Quotes (a line or two): For brief excerpts, integrate them naturally into the dialogue. Use quotation marks as you would with any other quote.
Example:
JOHN: Remember what she sang? "I'll be seeing you in all the old familiar places." It haunts me.
2. Longer Quotes (a verse or more): For longer passages, consider setting them apart visually to improve readability. You can use indentation, italics, or a combination of both.
Example:
MARY: (Sings softly)
“The rain is falling all around, It falls on field and tree. And I'm all alone, completely alone, And that's the way I'll be.”
JOHN: It's beautiful, but so sad.
3. Using "(Singing)" or similar stage directions: Clearly indicate when a character is singing the lyrics. This helps the reader understand the context and delivery.
Example:
SARAH: (Singing) “Oh, what a night, what a night!”
4. Specifying the Song: If the song is not immediately obvious, include the title and artist parenthetically to avoid confusion.
Example:
MICHAEL: (Singing) "Hey Jude" (The Beatles) “Don’t carry the world upon your shoulders…”
Addressing Copyright Concerns
Using copyrighted material requires careful consideration. Here are some key points:
- Fair Use: The amount of lyrics quoted, the purpose of the quote, and the effect of the quote on the market for the original work all influence whether your use falls under fair use. Generally, short quotes used for commentary or transformative purposes have a higher chance of being considered fair use.
- Permission: For longer quotes or if you anticipate commercial use of your script, it's best to seek permission from the copyright holder. This usually involves contacting the music publisher.
- Public Domain: If the song is in the public domain (copyright has expired), you are generally free to use it without permission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I indicate a character is humming a tune?
You can use stage directions like "(Humming softly)," "(Humming the melody of...)", or "(Humming a familiar tune)."
Should I use ellipses (...) within lyric quotes?
Yes, ellipses are appropriate to indicate omitted parts of lyrics, just as you would in any other quote.
What if the lyrics are altered slightly?
If you change the lyrics, you must clearly indicate this to avoid any confusion or legal issues. You might use a note like "(slightly altered)." However, significant alteration reduces the likelihood of fair use.
How do I quote lyrics that are already dialogue in the original song?
Treat them like any other piece of dialogue within the song, using standard quotation marks. The context of the song will make it clear it's a quote of a quote.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively quote lyrics in your script while maintaining legal compliance and ensuring clarity for your readers. Remember, responsible use of copyrighted material is crucial. When in doubt, it's always best to seek legal advice.
