Internet guitar tab thieves to face jail

People who take guitar tablature from the net may face prosecution, the Music Publishers' Association warned today.

Internet sites such as www.tabcrawler.com are common enough and share chordal structures for a range of songs, and lyrics to boot. However, the MPA is now warning that owners of such sites may be facing jail sentences for violation of copyright.

"Unauthorised use of lyrics and tablature deprives the songwriter of the ability to make a living, and is no different than stealing," MPA president Lauren Keise said. "Throw in some jail time [and] I think we'll be a little more effective."

This statement follows action by record companies earlier this week attempting to shut down development of software that searches the internet for lyrics and free sheet music or tabs. Owners of such sites have already been issued with 'cease and desist' notices.