Public Domain music refers to musical works that are no longer protected by copyright law, meaning anyone can use them freely without needing permission or paying royalties.
In the United States, this generally includes songs whose music and lyrics were published more than 95 years ago. For the exact dates, please refer to pdinfo.com.
These works can be legally recorded, performed, distributed, and monetized without a license for the original composition.
Can I distribute public domain music through CD Baby?
A song has a composition (music and lyrics) and a sound recording. A composition may be public domain while a particular recording remains protected.
CD Baby accepts new recordings that you own or control of public-domain compositions. We do not accept public-domain sound recordings, even when you believe the recording is legally free to use.
An arrangement or new lyrics may have separate copyright protection. Do not claim authorship of public-domain material you did not create.
Before submitting
Confirm that the composition is public domain in the relevant territory and that you own or control the new recording. If the composition is still protected in the United States, obtain the required cover-song license.
If you are unsure about a work’s status, consult a qualified rights professional. International laws differ, even when the artist is based outside the United States.
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