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How to copyright your music

Good news: your song is protected by copyright automatically the moment you record it in a fixed form - you don't have to register to own it. Here's how music copyright works, when registering helps, and how releasing keeps you the Ownership and royalties follow the applicable agreement owner. This is general information, not legal advice.

The basics

Copyright is automatic

In most countries, copyright exists the instant your work is recorded in a tangible form - a saved audio file counts. You don't need to file anything to own your song. There are typically two copyrights in a track: the composition (the song - melody and lyrics) and the sound recording (your specific recording, tied to its ISRC). You own both unless you sign them away.

Registration & distribution

When registering helps, and what a distributor does

Registering with your national copyright office is optional, but it creates a public record and can strengthen your ability to enforce your rights if there's ever a dispute. Separately, a distributor does not take your copyright - unlike some label deals, releasing through Mazufa leaves you owning Ownership and royalties follow the applicable agreement of your masters and composition. See do you keep your rights with a distributor. For anything specific to your situation, consult a qualified attorney - this page is general information only.

Questions

Frequently asked

Do I need to register my music to copyright it?

In most countries, no - copyright is automatic once your song is recorded in a fixed form. Registration is optional and mainly strengthens your ability to enforce your rights.

What are the two copyrights in a song?

The composition (the underlying song - melody and lyrics) and the sound recording (your specific recorded version). You can own both.

Does a distributor own my copyright?

No. A distributor only delivers your music to stores. With Mazufa you keep Ownership and royalties follow the applicable agreement ownership of both your recording and your composition.

Does releasing my song affect my copyright?

No. Distributing your music doesn't transfer any rights. You remain the owner and receive royalties under the applicable plan and agreement.

Is this legal advice?

No - this is general information. Copyright rules vary by country, so for your specific situation consult a qualified attorney or your national copyright office.

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Release and keep Ownership and royalties follow the applicable agreement ownership.

Distribute to supported digital services with Mazufa - you keep all your rights and royalties, commission according to current plan terms.