Even Century Old Records Had Restrictive Licensing

natch writes "While rummaging through some old records at an antique store I found some turn-of-the-century Victor Record Company pressings. The label on the back laid out the terms of use, something similar to an EULA. In today's modern world of RIAA lawsuits and DRM, it's interesting to note that similar tactics have been in use by record companies for over a century, restricting your right to use what you purchased. The label clearly states that unless the record was sold for at least one dollar, there is no license to use it."

Comments

Even worse on fair use

[Anonymous Coward]

The license restricts ripping to wax cylinders or whistling of said tune.

My great-grandfather was sued for this!

[sizzzzlerz]

Family history records him purchasing a batch of records from VinylTorrent for a nickel each and subsequently being sued under the aforementioned EULA. He had to pay two horses, a mule, and several chickens if I'm not mistaken.

Some angry fists were shaken that day, I'll bet.