Q&A
How to copyright your music before release?
Dec 9, 2025
Your music is automatically copyrighted the moment you record it or save it in a fixed format like a digital file or sheet music. However, if you want full legal protection and the ability to sue for damages if someone steals your work, you should officially register your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office at copyright.gov. Registration costs between $35 and $65 depending on whether you file online or by mail, and it gives you a legal paper trail that proves ownership. Most producers register their tracks before releasing them publicly to protect both the composition (the song itself) and the sound recording (your specific version).
Understanding copyright is just one part of building a professional release strategy, and Futureproof Music School helps you master the full picture with courses on the music business and personalized guidance from Futureproof Mentors who have navigated the industry themselves. Plus, Kadence (Futureproof's AI music coach) is available 24/7 to answer your questions about copyrights, royalties, and everything else you need to know before dropping your next track.
Do I need to register my copyright separately for stems and the final master?
No, your copyright registration covers all versions of the work, including stems, mixdowns, and alternate mixes, as long as they contain the same fundamental musical composition and arrangement. You only need to register once for each original song.
Can I copyright a song that samples another artist's work?
Yes, but you can only copyright the original elements you created, not the sampled portions. You'll still need to clear the sample with the original copyright holder before releasing your track commercially, even with your own copyright registration in place.
Should I copyright my music under my artist name or my legal name?
Register under your legal name as the author, but you can list your artist name as a pseudonym on the registration form. This protects your rights while maintaining your brand identity and makes it easier to prove ownership if legal issues arise.