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How Do I Copyright My Music?

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Explaining to you the learning curve I went through to copyrighting my music will save you loads of time and stress. After four albums published, I think I finally have this process down! Here’s how you can copyright your music. 

What You Probably Don’t Know About Copyright Protection

The second that you record your music in some way, it’s your property and you have the right to it. Yes, it can be a crappy recording on your cell phone. You are copyright-protected the minute you created your song, lyrics, composition, etc.

However, if someone were to “steal” or “copy” your exact piece, it may be hard to say who actually created it first. That’s why you should take the right to your music seriously and get your copyright on public record.

When you register your copyright through the U.S. Copyright Office, you will receive all the advantages of what copyright protection actually entails. So, if for some reason, someone does try to “steal” your song, you have the right to sue them for copyright infringement. Sorry, not sorry. 🙂

Tara sitting in the recording studio, looking at the recordings to get ready for copyright

How do I register my copyright? 

Here’s a step-by-step process for registering your music!

Step 1: Create an account at the U.S. Copyright Office 

Create your account by heading over to www.copyright.gov. Once you are on the homepage of the site, you will see an option that says, “register a copyright.” Click there and then, click on “log into eCO.” The next screen will prompt you to register for an account.

Step 2: Complete the Copyright Registration Application

Once you have signed up for an online account, you will find the online copyright registration forms inside your account. Follow the instructions carefully! (Side note: This can all be done electronically, but you can have the forms sent by mail based on what you prefer). 

Step 3: Have a professional recording ready to submitThe CD Cover of Tara Unchained by Tara O'Brien

In order to get copyright protection, you will be required to record your song in some type of professional format. You can have a written form, tape, or audio recording. You can also mail a copy of your song on paper or audio. It’s explained to you once you’re inside your account, but there are certain restraints on your submission depending on whether it’s published or not. 

Step 4: Pay your registration fee

The U.S. Copyright Office says, “The standard filing fee for electronic registration is $55 for basic claims. However, the filing fee is $35 if you register one work, not made for hire, and you are the only author and claimant.” You can pay your registration fee online with a credit, debit, ACH transfer, or a deposit account. You can also pay through the mail by sending a check or money order. If you have any other questions, refer to the Copyright Office Fees document on the website. 

Step 5: Now, you wait. 

Your copyright will be processed within three to five months. If you go through the mail, it will take 7 to 10 months. It’s a slow process but you’ll be so glad you did once you get that official piece of paper.

Tara Boykin holding her official paper of copyright Let me know if you have any other questions regarding copyright! 

 

NEXT ON THE BLOG

Now that you know how to copyright your music, how do you create an album that’s tangible and ready to hit the market?! Keep a lookout for the next blog! I’m going to share with you the learning curve of how I got my music on all the top music platforms and published my four (going on five) albums! 

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