Do Songwriters Get Paid for Cover Versions of Their Songs?

What Is a Cover Song?

A cover is a new performance or recording of an existing song by someone who didn’t write it. The lyrics and melody remain largely unchanged.

 How Songwriters Earn From Covers

Royalty Type	How It’s Earned	Paid To
Mechanical Royalties	Every time the cover is sold, downloaded, or streamed	Songwriter/Publisher
Performance Royalties	When the cover is played on radio, live, or streaming	Songwriter/Publisher

These royalties go to the original songwriter, even though the performer is different.

 Who Pays for Cover Licenses?

• In the U.S.: Cover artists must obtain a mechanical license (compulsory license)
• Services like Harry Fox Agency or Easy Song Licensing handle this
• For digital releases, The MLC handles mechanicals for streaming platforms
• Globally: Other countries pay mechanicals via their local CMOs (like PRS, GEMA)

 Exceptions (When Covers Need Extra Approval)

• Covers that change lyrics, melody, or structure require the songwriter’s permission
• Syncing a cover to video (film, YouTube, etc.) requires a sync license
• Covers of songs that haven’t been commercially released yet can’t be covered legally

 Pro Tips

• As a songwriter, ensure your songs are registered with a PRO and The MLC
• If your song becomes popular, promote covers and remixes—they generate revenue for you
• Publishing admins can help track and collect royalties from foreign covers
• Watch your royalty statements—cover versions can add up over time

Bottom Line:
Cover songs can be a steady source of income for songwriters through mechanical and performance royalties. Even if someone else performs your song, you still get paid.