Justin Bieber's Coachella performance was a spectacle, but it sparked a debate about the ownership of his music. The Daily Mail speculated that Bieber's sale of his music catalog in December 2022 might be the reason he focused on new music during his set. However, experts, including Daniel J. Schacht and James Grimmelmann, clarify that this sale did not prevent him from performing his songs. The relevant copyright is the public performance right, which is administered by performance rights organizations (PRO). These organizations license entire repertoires, allowing performers to play any song from the catalog. Recognition Music Group, the new owner of Bieber's catalog, can receive royalties from these licenses, but Bieber never needed to own the performance rights to perform his songs. The sale of the catalog did not restrict his performance rights, and any such restriction would be unprecedented. Moreover, the new owner would benefit from increased attention to the original videos and recordings, leading to more streams and positive outcomes. Bieber's use of YouTube during the performance was a playful nod to his discovery on the platform, showcasing early songs and covers. The performance included a mix of old and new content, with Bieber even incorporating a video of a young Bieber walking into a glass door and a recently infamous clip of him scolding a paparazzi. The event was a testament to Bieber's versatility and his ability to connect with fans through his music, regardless of ownership.
