
Trying and failing to contact the rights holder is not a substitution for permission.When you plan to use someone else’s work, for example when recording a cover song, always compare all of your intended uses with the exclusive rights of copyright and make sure you are lawfully engaging in each use.There’s no hard and fast minimum amount of music you can use without getting permission when you need it.Rely on a statutory limitation to the exclusive rights, such as fair use or the section 115 license for musical works.Get permission from the copyright holder directly, or license the work according to the terms set by the licensing contract.Use work that is already in the public domain.Generally, to use the sound recordings or musical works of another artist, you must:

Here are some important copyright principles to keep in mind. It’s important not to assume that you can freely use other works. Musicians often use other works to create new compositions, public performances, and recordings. Using Someone Else’s Workīeing inspired by others’ work is intrinsic to the creative process. In addition to registering your sound recordings and musical works with the Copyright Office, you may also want to consider submitting a trademark application for your band name with the U.S. You can reach out to our help team for assistance determining the best option for you. In the case of an application to register sound recordings, the applicant may also register any associated literary, pictorial, and graphic works in the album, such as cover art, liner notes, and/or posters.


Standard Application for registering an individual sound recording or musical work.Depending on the type of work, there are several different online application options, including: Copyright Office requires an application, a filing fee, and a copy of the work. Registering your work also makes a public record of your ownership. Copyright Office for additional benefits, including access to federal courts in the case of infringement. Although your work is protected by copyright from the moment it is fixed, you can register your work with the U.S.
