Do Bands Pay to Cover Songs?
If you’re in a band, chances are you’ve thought about covering a song. Maybe it’s a beloved classic you’ve reimagined or an earworm you want to put your spin on. But have you ever wondered, do bands have to pay to cover songs?
The short answer is yes, they do. Behind the scenes, covering a song isn’t as simple as just performing it live or recording it. There are specific legal and financial steps every band must follow. Whether you’re new or experienced, knowing the rules keeps you legal, creative, and connected.
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Why Do Bands Have to Pay to Cover Songs?
Every song has a copyright owner, typically the songwriter or the publisher who represents them. Copyright laws exist to protect these creators, ensuring they’re compensated for their work. When a band covers a song, they are essentially borrowing someone else’s intellectual property. Paying for the right to do so is not just the law; it’s also a way to honor the songwriter’s craft and effort.
The legal framework ensures that creators earn royalties every time their work is distributed or used. If a band covers a song and sells or streams it, the songwriter earns a share. This system supports the creative ecosystem, enabling artists to keep making music.
What Licenses Are Required to Cover a Song?
Covering a song requires obtaining specific licenses depending on how the song will be used. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
1. Mechanical License
A mechanical license is required if you plan to distribute your version of a song. This applies to both physical sales (like CDs or vinyl) and digital platforms (like iTunes or streaming services). If you cover “Imagine” and sell it, a mechanical license ensures proper royalties.
2. Sync License
Planning to use a song in visual media like TV, movies, YouTube videos, or video games? Then you’ll need a synchronization license, or sync license for short. A sync license allows the song to be paired with visual content. To use your cover in a video or on YouTube, get copyright permission.
3. Performance License
Venues handle performance licenses with PROs like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. These licenses allow artists to play copyrighted music live without worrying about individual permissions.
How Can Bands Handle the Licensing Process?
For many independent or emerging bands, the legal side of covering songs can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are tools and organizations that simplify the process.
Easy Song Licensing
Easy Song Licensing helps artists secure licenses for both covers and original compositions easily. They walk you through the application process and handle the details with copyright holders, leaving you free to focus on your craft.
Loudr
Loudr simplifies bulk licensing for covering multiple songs or acoustic tracks. They streamline the process and ensure all royalties are paid accurately.
Benefits of Covering Songs
Covering a song is more than just a legal obligation. It’s an opportunity to grow creatively and expand your reach as an artist. Here are some ways covering songs can benefit your band:
1. Creative Exploration
Taking an existing song and reimagining it gives bands the chance to experiment with styles and arrangements.
2. Connecting With Fans
Audiences love familiarity. Performing or releasing a cover creates an instant connection because people already know and love the song. It’s a great way to draw in new fans, especially if you’re introducing them to your original work.
3. Commercial Potential
Covers can be a fantastic promotional tool. For example, a memorable version of a well-known track can lead to increased streams and downloads.
Common Misconceptions About Covering Songs
Despite the benefits, there are a few myths about covering songs that need clearing up:
Myth 1: “If It’s Live, It’s Free”
Many assume that playing a cover during a live show is free of legal obligations. While bands don’t need to secure their own license for live performances, the venue still must acquire a performance license from a PRO.
Myth 2: “Changing the Lyrics Makes It Original”
Changing a few words or altering a melody doesn’t make a song yours. It’s still subject to copyright, and any significant changes require explicit approval from the copyright holder.
Myth 3: “Old Songs Are Public Domain”
Not all old songs are free to use. While copyright typically lasts the life of the author plus 70 years, this varies by country. Always verify a song’s status before using it.
Covering Songs
Covering a song showcases your style and respects the original creator by following legal steps. With the right steps, covering songs can open doors to creative growth and commercial success. And who knows? Your version might just turn into the next viral hit!