Michael R. Morris moderated a panel discussion on recent legal developments important to members of the music industry, hosted Sept. 16 on Zoom by the California Copyright Conference.
The title of the session was “Legal Roundup 2025: The Black, the White, and the Gray of Legal Developments of the Past Year.”
The panel looked at the many changes, some occurring seemingly weekly, resulting from developments shaped by leading technology companies (including digital service providers like Spotify and Apple Music), performing rights organizations, and music industry copyright stakeholders such as songwriters, publishers, and record companies.
Topics discussed included copyright reform, court decisions, legislation, “fair use,” artificial intelligence, the U.S. Copyright Office, performing rights organizations, and others.
Joining Mr. Morris as panelists were Jordan Bromley, Esq., a Partner with Manatt Phelps & Phillips, LLP and leader of the firm’s Entertainment, Transactions and Finance practice group; and Jacqueline C. Charlesworth, Esq., a Partner with Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz.
Registration was free for CCC members, and $5 for others. The online session was held from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.
Michael has blended his tax law expertise with his passion for music and entertainment, resulting in a practice that is unique.
As a former trial lawyer for the IRS and a Certified Specialist in Taxation Law, Michael provides insightful resolutions to his clients’ complicated tax, estate, and business transaction issues. In the entertainment industry, Michael has developed a strong reputation for providing valuable and effective business solutions in areas such as copyright and contractual matters.
Although Michael’s core competency is within the tax arena and entertainment, he has developed significant expertise covering a wide range of businesses. His diverse client base includes major studio executives, recording artists (including Grammy winners), production companies, film and TV composers, talent agencies, payroll companies, skin healthcare companies, postproduction houses, software companies, and an award-winning winery.