Hound Dog

This sound recording of Big Walter Horton's 'Hound Dog', released in 1996, is classified as PROTECTED under the Music Modernization Act (MMA). The MMA, specifically 17 U.S.C. § 1401(a)(2)(C) and its general provisions regarding recordings fixed on or after February 15, 1972, dictates that these works are subject to the standard federal term of copyright. For works created in 1978 or later, as this recording effectively is given its 1996 release, this term is generally the life of the author plus 70 years, or, if made for hire, 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter. As Big Walter Horton passed away in 1981, this recording was made posthumously, likely as part of a compilation or re-release. Regardless of the circumstances of its creation, its fixation and release date place it firmly under the purview of current federal copyright law, ensuring its protection. The original composition of 'Hound Dog' was famously recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952 and later by Elvis Presley in 1956. However, this analysis pertains solely to the specific 1996 sound recording by Big Walter Horton. The earlier recordings and the underlying musical composition are subject to their own separate copyright terms and provisions under the MMA. The 1996 fixation date is paramount for this particular recording's copyright status, making it fully protected under the modernized federal framework for sound recordings. Therefore, the 1996 Big Walter Horton sound recording of 'Hound Dog' will remain protected for a significant period into the future, aligned with the terms granted to contemporary sound recordings. This is distinct from recordings made before 1972, which have staggered expiration dates under the MMA, or the separate copyright for the musical composition.