Copyright Your Music

Copyrights Are a Necessity by tnagosto on GoAnimate

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Now that you’ve set up your social media accounts and began to interact with your audience, it’s time to upload your music. Before you give the world access to your creations, take the necessary steps to copyright your music. Do not assume that your music is safe or be naïve to the fact that people steal music every day. I would hate to see you suffer like Dave after he put his blood, sweat and tears into his album only to have it stolen by Lacy. Thanks to Dave’s creativity, Lacy is a rock star! 

Dave fixed original songs to a fixed, tangible medium, therefore, he is the exclusive and sole copyright owner. However, Dave failed to register his work and had a difficult time disputing his claim. Lacy had a few tricks up her sleeve. As soon as she discovered Dave’s music did not have a copyright, she registered the songs as her own and threatened to file suit against Dave for stealing his own music. He was forced to watch as Lacy made millions of dollars off his songs. 

Poor Dave could have avoided this tragedy. Believe it or not, protecting your music isn’t as hard as you think. The best way to safeguard it in the United States is to register your music with the U.S. Copyright Office. This is a simple, inexpensive process. Once you’ve created your music and saved it, follow these easy steps:

1. Go to the U.S. Copyright Office’s eCO login to set up an account. This allows you to submit copyright applications at your convenience.
2. Complete the online application to register sound recording (online submissions take approximately 4.5 months | U.S. mail submissions take up to 15 months). I highly recommend registering online through eCO Login.
3. Pay $35 fee with a credit/debit card, electronic funds transfer (ACH), or by Copyright Office deposit account (U.S. mail submissions pay ranges from $45 - $65 depending on the form(s) used).
4. Upload your sound recording. Check with the U.S. Copyright Office to ensure your file is compatible.
5. Click on, "Submit files to U.S. Copyright Office." Once you close the window, as directed, you will receive an email confirmation to confirm your submission and immediate protection (U.S. mail submissions also receive immediate protection upon receipt, but it takes longer to arrive and process). Remember, your application for copyright takes 4.5 months to OFFICIALLY record (up to 15 months for U.S. mail submissions), but you're still covered.

This painless copyright process provides great protection for your music. You should also submit your work to one of the performing rights organizations (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) for extended coverage. You can never be too careful.

Create a Social Media Buzz Around Your Music

So… you say you’re talented. Why haven’t we heard of you? It takes a lot more than an amazing singing voice, dope lyrics, hot instrumentals and fresh beats to make it in the music industry. You have to showcase your talent all across the world to gain recognition. The most economic way to accomplish this seemingly daunting task is to utilize social media.

Social media should be an unknown artist's best friend. You have the ability to create a fan base and catch the attention of record labels on a shoestring budget. Take full advantage of this opportunity!

First, determine what you plan to accomplish with social media marketing (i.e. a record deal, more fans, promote events, sale albums, etc.) Then choose your stage. Facebook, Twitter and YouTube would be a good place to start. You should also consider platforms geared towards music such as ReverbNation, SoundCloud and SoundClick. These are all great sites to give people a taste of your music.

Please remember that creating a profile on these sites is just half the battle. It is extremely important to consistently spoon feed your audience quality material that will make them beg for more. With that said, you should choose music that is the best representation of what you have to offer. Do not attempt to upload music that is unfinished, of poor quality or lacks originality. No one will take you serious.

Once you’ve selected your social media platforms and music, get personal. Talk about your accomplishments as well as your struggles. How long did it take you to record your favorite track? Where are you performing this weekend? What’s for dinner tonight? You could even tell a story about you and a family member or a close friend. This shows you’re real and makes it easier for your audience to relate to you.

Create a social media buzz around your music. Set realistic goals for your marketing efforts, select the best social media platforms, upload high quality tracks, get personal and be consistent. Use social media marketing to take your music career to the next level!