A federal judge has ruled in favor of a music licensing agency that claimed a popular Hampton Beach karaoke bar ripped it off by allowing its patrons to sing its catalog of songs, including "Get Down Tonight" by KC and the Sunshine Band.

Judge Paul Barbadoro accepted a motion for summary judgment Monday against Stacey Janes after owner Charles Hughes refused to respond to the motion. The bar, located at 9 Ocean Blvd., was sued earlier this year by Broadcast Music Inc., known as BMI, alleging seven claims of copyright infringement based on the unauthorized public performances of its music.

The bar is now barred from using the agency's music without a license and may have to pay $750 to $30,000 per song that was played. A damages hearing has been set for 10 a.m. Jan. 16.

BMI attorney Todd A. Sullivan said his client intends to seek $2,500 per violation for a total of $17,500, plus attorney fees. Continue