What can one do with public domain works?

[ChessPieceFace]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? I'm in Utah, but interested in implications all over the USA and beyond.

I'm in a band and we'd like to use some audio samples from old radio shows, movies, etc in our recordings and live performances. I understand that many of these exist in the public domain and intend to be careful that the samples I use come from public domain works.

If a radio program is in the public domain, can I do whatever I want with it? Or are there still legal limitations as to how I can use/sell it?

 

[justalayman]

You can use public domain works as you wish but..

How are you determining whether the works are in the public domain or not?

 

[ChessPieceFace]

You can use public domain works as you wish but..

How are you determining whether the works are in the public domain or not?

Well, that would be my next question.

I've found plenty of lists online of movies and radio shows that are supposed to be public domain. I'm not sure how to go about confirming this, however.

Any ideas?

 

[OHRoadwarrior]

Many of the old radio show rights are owned by Westwood One. They just don't air them many places.