[Verse 1] When you find some code online that solves your coding need Before you copy paste it in, there's something you should read Those little files called licenses that tell you what's allowed Some let you do most anything, while others aren't so proud [Chorus] MIT is minimal, just give credit where it's due Apache adds protection from patents coming through GPL says share alike, your changes must be free Know your license, stay compliant, code responsibly [Verse 2] MIT's the simplest one, permissive is its way Just keep that copyright notice and you'll be okay You can modify and sell it, keep your changes closed As long as attribution stays, anything goes [Chorus] MIT is minimal, just give credit where it's due Apache adds protection from patents coming through GPL says share alike, your changes must be free Know your license, stay compliant, code responsibly [Verse 3] Apache Two Point Zero gives you patent grants as well If someone holds a patent, they can't sue you or tell You not to use their contribution, it's built right in the deal Plus better legal language makes the terms more real [Chorus] MIT is minimal, just give credit where it's due Apache adds protection from patents coming through GPL says share alike, your changes must be free Know your license, stay compliant, code responsibly [Bridge] GPL's the copyleft one, it spreads the freedom wide If you distribute changes, source code can't hide Your whole combined work must use the GPL too It's viral by design to keep the software free and true [Verse 4] Before you pick a library, check what license it contains Make sure it fits your project's needs and doesn't cause you pains Commercial software might clash with GPL's demands But MIT and Apache play nice with most plans [Final Chorus] MIT is minimal, just give credit where it's due Apache adds protection from patents coming through GPL says share alike, your changes must be free Read the license, understand it, code responsibly [Outro] When in doubt just ask a lawyer Better safe than sorry later Open source powers our world But respect the rules unfurled
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