🎼 Copyrighting Your Music: Why Every Artist Needs to Do It

Copyright

You’ve poured your heart into a song. You’ve recorded it, mixed it, maybe even shared it with a few people. But here’s the question: Have you protected it?

In the U.S., the moment you create an original piece of music and record it or write it down, you automatically own the copyright. But there’s a big difference between owning your work and being able to prove it in court.

Copyright vs. PRO Registration — They’re Not the Same

A lot of artists confuse these two:

• Copyright Registration: Filed with the U.S. Copyright Office. Protects your ownership of the composition and/or sound recording.

• PRO Registration (BMI/ASCAP): Tracks and collects performance royalties when your music is played publicly.

You need both. One protects your rights, the other collects your money.

🚫 The “Poor Man’s Copyright” Myth

You’ve probably heard it: “Mail yourself a copy of your song and don’t open it — that’s proof you own it.”

That’s the Poor Man’s Copyright, and it’s a myth.

Courts don’t recognize it. Envelopes can be tampered with, postmarks can be faked, and even if you could prove the date, it doesn’t give you the legal standing to sue for damages.

If you’re serious about protecting your music, register it officially at copyright.gov.

Two Types of Music Copyright

1. Composition Copyright (PA Form) — Protects the song itself: melody, lyrics, arrangement.

2. Sound Recording Copyright (SR Form) — Protects the actual recorded performance.

If you wrote and recorded the song yourself, you can often register both in one application.

How to Register Your Music

1. Go to copyright.gov and create an account.

2. Choose the correct form: PA for compositions, SR for recordings.

3. Fill out the application with your song details and ownership info.

4. Upload your audio file or sheet music.

5. Pay the fee ($45–$65 depending on the application).

6. Submit and wait for your certificate.

Pro Tips

• Register before you release your music — it protects against leaks.

• Batch multiple songs into one registration to save on fees.

• Keep your certificates safe — both digital and printed copies.

• Pair copyright registration with PRO registration for full protection.

Final Word

Copyrighting your music is like putting a lock on your house.

It won’t stop people from trying to break in, but it gives you the legal power to fight back — and win.

Protect your art. Protect your legacy.