Dave,

The line probably would have been OK.

The music was written by George Gershwin who died in 1937 and the lyrics were by DuBose Heyward who died in 1940.

According to Google, the current copyright in the USA is 70 years after the death of the last composer in the case of a joint work (if I understand things correctly). Since 1940 + 70 = 2010, the work is out of copyright. This principle is most likely reflected in trade agreements between other countries.

That said, as Pat Pattison once stated at a seminar I went to too... "Never be afraid to throw out pet lines, there's always something better waiting in the wings that wants to come on stage". I always keep that in mind.

What's interesting about your situation and copyright is that you'd be governed firstly by Canadian laws and Chris's lyrics would be governed by firstly by German laws. I have no idea how that works!

I'm looking forward to hearing the song!

All the best,
Noel


MY SONGS...
Audiophile BIAB 2025