Cover songs

What is a Cover Song

A cover song is your recording of a song that you didn't write, and which has previously been released in the USA, with the consent of the copyright owner (the songwriter/publisher). When you record a cover song and wish to distribute it for monetary gain, you have to pay the publisher of the original recording. 

Examples: You record your version of a song done by The Beatles or Bad Bunny, or any song you have to pay the publisher (copyright owner) to create copies of.

What is not a Cover Song

• A song you wrote.
• A song you co-wrote with someone.
• A song someone gave you permission to record and release, but has never been recorded and released before.
• An old song that is now in public domain (songs written/published before January 1, 1928).
• An old traditional song (like Ave Maria or Amazing Grace).
• A song you don't have to pay to create copies of.