Family in Music requires all users to ensure they have obtained the proper licenses before distributing any recording. Below, we cover common scenarios and frequently asked questions regarding cover songs.
What Is a Cover Song?
A cover song is a new recording of an existing song by an artist who is not the original composer or recording artist. It must be a faithful rendition—meaning no changes to the melody, arrangement, or lyrics (including translations). Additionally, the original song must have already been publicly released by the original artist or their record label before the cover version is recorded.
A cover song must not include any part of the original master recording, regardless of duration. If it does, it is considered a remix or mashup, which requires a separate master license.
When an artist records and releases a cover song, they must obtain a mechanical license to ensure proper royalty payments to the original songwriter(s). In some cases, cover songs may qualify for compulsory mechanical licenses, meaning the DSP is responsible for obtaining the license.
What Is a Mechanical License?
A mechanical license allows for the reproduction of a composition in physical formats (like vinyl and CDs) and digital formats (such as interactive streaming and downloads). Mechanical royalties are paid to the original songwriter(s) and their publisher.
Requirements for Distributing a Cover Song Through Family in Music
The following conditions must be met:
The cover version must be a faithful rendition of the original song, meaning no changes to the melody or lyrics (minor arrangement changes are allowed).
Translating lyrics into another language is not considered a cover. Instead, it becomes a derivative work, requiring permission from the lyricist or publisher.
The cover version must not include any part of the original recording.
The original song must have already been publicly released by the original artist or a record label.
The original songwriters, lyricists, and publishers must be correctly credited in the cover song metadata. You can find this information through sources like the Easysong search engine.
If you distribute your cover song to download DSPs, you will need to obtain specific licenses for the following countries:
USA: EasySong
Mexico: emmacsacm.com.mx
India & Pakistan: Contact the rights holder directly
Releasing a Cover Song on YouTube/VEVO
Since YouTube and VEVO are audiovisual platforms, distributing a cover song as part of a video requires an additional synchronization (sync) license, along with the mechanical license.
YouTube’s licenses cover reproduction and performing rights for most publishing catalogs.
However, if you are uploading premium music video (PMV) content, you must obtain separate synchronization rights.
If you are delivering audio-only content to YouTube (including UGC tracks), you are not responsible for publishing licenses.
Remix & Derivative Work
What Is a Remix or Derivative Work?
A remix is a reimagined version of an existing song, often created by modifying elements like tempo, instrumentation, or vocal arrangements. Unlike cover songs, remixes typically incorporate elements from the original master recording and require explicit permission from the original rights holders.
Some common types of remixes include:
Extended Mix – A longer version of the track with added sections.
Radio Edit – A shorter, radio-friendly version.
Club Mix – Optimized for dancefloors, emphasizing beats and bass.
Acoustic Remix – A version featuring stripped-down acoustic instruments.
Instrumental Remix – The track without vocals.
Vocal Remix – A remix focused on reworking vocals.
Mashup – A combination of two or more songs.
Bootleg Remix – An unofficial, unauthorized remix.
While remixes provide creative reinterpretation, unauthorized remixes can lead to copyright issues.
What Licenses Are Required?
To legally distribute a remix, you must obtain:
Permission from the songwriter (or music publisher)
Permission from the original recording artist (or record label)
There is no compulsory license for remixes, so these permissions must be secured before distribution.
How Can I Obtain a Proper License for a Remix?
The best way to obtain a remix license is through the record label and publishing company that owns the original recording.
Labels handle permissions for both remixes and mashups (DSPs do not have the authority to grant these permissions).
Once labels obtain the necessary approvals, they can distribute remixes through DSPs.
Most DSPs will automatically acquire mechanical licenses for distributed content.
In summary, remixers only need approval from the record label to remix the master recording, as DSPs will handle mechanical licenses.