Securing Your Melody: How to Copyright Your Music in the US

Protecting your musical creations is crucial, and US copyright law provides the framework for securing ownership through copyright. If you live outside of the USA, find the Copyrighting Office responsible for this task.

Simplified guide on how to register your music in the US:

Eligibility:

You can copyright original musical compositions, including the melody, harmony, and lyrics (if present).
Recordings of the musical piece are separate works with distinct copyright ownership, often belonging to the performer or record label.

Methods for copyrighting your music:

1. Unpublished Works:

This option covers songs not yet made public.
Fill out the Standard Application form from the US Copyright Office (https://www.copyright.gov/registration/).
Submit a deposit (e.g., sheet music, audio recording).
Pay a filing fee, currently $35 online or $85 for paper applications.

2. Published Works:

Covers songs released to the public (e.g., online, streamed, printed).
Use the Standard Application, similar to unpublished works.
Include publication details and dates.

Benefits of copyright registration:

Registration strengthens your legal position in case of infringement.
It enables filing lawsuits to enforce your copyright.
Registration serves as public documentation of your ownership.

Additional Points regarding copyright registration:

Copyright protection arises automatically upon creation, but registration offers enhanced benefits.
Consider consulting a lawyer for complex situations or legal advice.
Explore resources like the US Copyright Office website and music industry organizations for further guidance.

Conclusion:

Be accurate and complete when filling out applications.
Keep copies of all submitted materials.
Copyright registration is only for works created on or after January 1, 1978.

By taking these steps, you can confidently secure your music's copyright and safeguard your creative expression.

Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified lawyer for specific legal guidance and assistance.