In Europe, sound recordings enter the public domain 50 years after their initial release.  …  , a published U.S. sound recording created in 1890 will not enter the public domain until 177 years after its creation, constituting a term of rights protection 82 years longer than that of all other forms of audio visual works made for hire.”

via Copyright Protection That Serves to Destroy | Sightings by Terry Teachout – WSJ.com.