cbsnews.com

even if Petty’s management does send Bachmann a cease and desist letter, the law may be on the her side if the songwriter licensed the performance rights to “American Girl” with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers or Broadcast Music Inc. (According to a 2008 report on the subject, “the vast majority” of artists do.)

“Buying an ASCAP or BMI license allows a venue (or a campaign, if it purchases a traveling blanket license) to play any of about 8 million songs during their events. Though it might be a nice courtesy, the licensees are not obligated to call the artist to discuss,” writes Politico’s Suz Redfearn.