How Do I Protect My Songs and Still Get Paid?

How to Protect Your Songs

1. Copyright Your Song
• In the U.S., copyright protection starts automatically when you create and fix your song in a tangible form (like writing lyrics or recording).
• For stronger legal protection, register your song with the U.S. Copyright Office.
• Registration costs a small fee but gives you legal proof of ownership and the right to sue for infringement.
2. Use Split Sheets
• When co-writing, use a split sheet to document who owns what percentage.
• This prevents disputes and clarifies royalty shares.
3. Keep Records
• Save drafts, recordings, timestamps, emails, and any documentation related to your songwriting process.
• This can help prove authorship if needed.

 How to Get Paid

1. Register Your Song with PROs
• ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, or others collect performance royalties on your behalf.
• Register each song and your share percentage.
2. Register with the MLC
• For U.S. digital mechanical royalties, register your works with the Mechanical Licensing Collective.
3. Sign Up with SoundExchange
• To collect digital performance royalties from non-interactive streaming services (Pandora, SiriusXM).
4. Publish Your Songs
• Either self-publish or partner with a publisher or admin service to maximize collection globally.

 Avoid These Pitfalls

• Don’t share your work publicly before registering/copyrighting if you’re worried about theft.
• Never sign agreements without reading and understanding your rights.
• Don’t let disputes about ownership go unresolved.

 Pro Tips

• Use reputable online platforms to register copyrights easily.
• Always confirm your song metadata is accurate in PRO and publishing databases.
• Consider legal advice for contracts or if you suspect infringement.

Bottom Line:
Protect your songs by copyrighting and registering them properly, then register with collection societies to ensure you get paid when your music is performed, reproduced, or licensed.