Capitol Records, Inc. v. Mp3tunes, LLC
821 F. Supp. 2d 627
S.D.N.Y.2011Background
- EMI, Inc. and others sued MP3tunes, LLC and Michael Robertson for copyright infringement.
- MP3tunes operated lockers and sideloading services allowing users to store, play, and download music, including from third-party sites.
- EMI served takedown notices identifying hundreds of infringing works and links; MP3tunes removed only the specific links on Sideload.com, not the contents in users’ lockers.
- The court analyzes DMCA safe harbors under 17 U.S.C. § 512, focusing on 512(i) repeat infringer policy, 512(c)/(d) takedown compliance, 512(c)(1)/512(d)(1) red flags, and 512(c)/(d) benefit and control.
- The court concluded EMI could win on contributory infringement for certain songs not removed from lockers, and Robertson’s direct infringement claims were granted in part, while MP3tunes’ safe harbor defenses were limited in scope.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whether MP3tunes qualifies for DMCA safe harbors generally | EMI: MP3tunes failed to reasonably implement repeat infringer policy and harmed enforcement. | MP3tunes: Implemented policy; removed identified infringements; monitored and terminated repeat infringers. | MP3tunes partially qualifies; safe harbor protects EMI/MP3tunes-linked content but not infringing sideloads cited in notices. |
| Whether MP3tunes complied with takedown notices under 512(c)/(d) | EMI: Must remove all infringing material identified in notices. | MP3tunes: Must remove identified specific material; not required to locate all other infringements. | Complied for material not in lockers; not for sideloaded songs moved into user lockers. |
| Whether MP3tunes had actual or red-flag knowledge of infringement | EMI: Executives' sideloading and notices show knowledge; red flags exist. | MP3tunes did not have specific knowledge of infringement tied to particular links. | No genuine dispute of red-flag or actual knowledge for specific links beyond notices. |
| Whether MP3tunes is contributorily or vicariously liable for infringement | EMI: MP3tunes contributed to infringement by permitting and enabling access. | MP3tunes did not induce infringement and did not control/benefit in a way that creates liability; safe harbor applies to some content. | Contributory infringement found for songs in EMI notices not removed; Robertson directly liable for his sideloading; vicarious liability for executives unresolved; cover art unresolved. |
Key Cases Cited
- Vicom, Inc. v. YouTube, LLC, 718 F. Supp. 2d 514 (S.D.N.Y. 2010) (relevant to safe harbors and termination of infringers; not strictly controlling here)
- Arista Records LLC v. Doe 3, 604 F.3d 110 (2d Cir. 2010) (contributory liability standards for internet services)
- Usenet, LLC v. Usenet.com, Inc., 633 F. Supp. 2d 105 (S.D.N.Y. 2009) (substantial contributory liability and server role)
- Napster, LLC v. gem niche, 239 F.3d 1004 (9th Cir. 2001) (nature of contributory infringement on file-sharing services)
- Viacom Intern., Inc. v. YouTube, Inc., 718 F. Supp. 2d 514 (S.D.N.Y. 2010) (DMCA notices, safe harbor limitations and scope of takedown obligations)
- Cartoon Network, LP v. CSC Holdings, Inc., 536 F.3d 121 (2d Cir. 2008) (no master copy in online storage; DMCA safe harbors)
- Perfect 10, Inc. v. CCBill, LLC, 488 F.3d 1102 (9th Cir. 2007) (requirement of reasonable implementation of repeat infringer policy)