It might be tempting to use a song's lyrics in your story and not bother securing the rights, but Helen Sedwick warns that powerful music publishers can make you regret your actions: "This is one case where it is cheaper to get permission than to ask forgiveness. The cost of getting permission to use lyrics in self-published books is often affordable, typically between $10 and $50." Sedwick explains how to find out who to ask for rights — which is seldom the songwriter.
April 28, 2015