Did you know that since 2009, the revenue from recorded music lingered between $4.6-4.9 billion? However, in 2021, this revenue surged to over $8 billion, logging a colossal growth! But how are these numbers related to music copyright? Well, without copyright, clocking in revenue from music would be next to impossible. So, the short answer to why copyright matters- it enables you to make money from your work!
However, copyrighting music is a long and taxing process, especially for rookies who are about to drop their first hit. You must have a lot of questions running wild in your mind, such as what does music copyright entail, whether there are types of music copyright or not, and how to get one in the first place. To put all of these doubts to rest, we will discuss each and every question in detail. So, without any further delay, let us begin with this comprehensive music copyright guide:
What is music copyright?
In India, the copyright laws are governed by the Copyright Act of 1957 that outlines that copyright can be obtained for authentic literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, cinematography films, and sound recordings. Once a copyright is obtained in any sphere, the owner gets the legal rights for his work. This translates to protection against plagiarising, copying, and stealing.
Now, since we know what copyright is, let’s see what is meant by music copyright. In simple words, music copyright gives you complete legal ownership of your work. Hence, no one can copy or modify your song and publish it as their own for commercial gains. But there’s a catch! Music copyright has several subparts because a song is recorded and published by the contribution of several individuals- lyricists, composers, singers, and producers. Thus, you can’t copyright the entire song (unless you are the sole creator of the work), but only your contribution!
What are the types of musical copyright?
There are two sets of copyrights- composition copyright and master recording copyright.
Composition copyright
This type of copyright is for an underlying musical composition, such as the order of chords, notes, and melodies. The composition copyright is generally for composers, lyricists, and songwriters. Plus, it might also be partially owned by music publishers as they are the ones who manage the artist’s publishing work.
Master recording
This type of copyright is for a particular sound recording that consists of a specific expression of the underlying composition that is made by either recording or performing artists. The master recording copyright is usually held and owned by performing artists and big labels.
How to copyright the music?
The procedure for filing music copyright in India is pretty simple as long as you adhere to the following 5 steps:
Step One: Filing of application
The initial step is to apply virtually through the portal of a copyright attorney. Within this application, the information regarding the copyright should be carefully filed along with Form XIV. After successful submission, a diary number is allotted.
Step Two: Formality check
Once the application gets processed, it will be subjected to a formality check. If the requirement of 2 copies of work and Form XIV is met, the application would move onto the next step.
Step Three: Waiting period
After the application passes through the formality check, there will be a waiting period of 30 days. Within this timeframe, the application is open to objection from any third party who claims to have an interest in the subject of the copyright.
Step Four: Hearing
This step is relevant in case of any objection in the third step. Under this phase, a letter would be issued to both the parties and a hearing would be scheduled at the registrar’s office. Both the parties would be given an equal right to present their case. If the application is passed, it will move onto the final step.
Step Five: Registration granted
Under the final step, the application would reach the registrar’s desk for scrutiny. In case it is accepted, the approval will be granted, and the extracts will be sent to the applicant’s address.
What does music copyright include?
Music copyright includes a lot of legal benefits and rights, a couple of which are as follows:
- It makes you the legal owner
Music copyright would make you the legal owner of your work. This means no one can modify, change, copy, or distribute your work without your permission.
- It enables you to file for copyright infringement
If you have music copyright, filing for copyright infringement becomes relatively easier, in case someone uses your work without your permission.
A few other benefits of music copyright are public documentation of ownership and remuneration of damages.
Should music copyright be registered?
Yes, music copyright should be registered as it is what will give you legal ownership of your work. Without copyright registration, proving that you are the owner of your work will be difficult. Moreover, seeking any monetary loss from the person who has copied your work will be almost impossible.
Beatoven Music: A copyright-free music library
In this guide, we have talked in detail about music copyright. However, if you are a rookie content creator looking for copyright-free music for YouTube or a vlogger searching for copyright-free music for vlogs, music copyright means obstacles!
If you are looking for copyright-free music, you must consider checking out Beatoven. It is an AI-powered copyright-free music library that has nearly anything and everything for everyone. Be it copyright-free music for Instagram or other platforms, Beatoven has it all. Plus, you could also make your own tunes on this platform!
