Chapter 2 of 7
Module 2.1: Composition Copyright
A composition copyright protects the underlying musical work—the melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyrics that make up a song.
This type of copyright is typically held by the songwriter(s) and/or their publisher and covers the musical composition regardless of how it's performed or recorded.
Key Points:
- Protection: Covers the written music and lyrics.
- Ownership: Typically held by songwriters and composers.
- Usage: Required for licensing cover versions, sheet music, or film scores.
Module 2.2: Sound Recording Copyright
A sound recording copyright protects the specific recorded performance of a musical composition.
This copyright is separate from the composition copyright and covers the particular way a song is performed, produced, and recorded.
Key Points:
- Protection: Covers the actual audio recording of a performance.
- Ownership: Often held by the recording artist or record label.
- Usage: Required for sampling, remixing, or using the specific recording in media.
Module 2.3: Differences Between the Two
Understanding the distinction between composition and sound recording copyrights is crucial for musicians, as these rights are often licensed separately and may be owned by different parties.
For example, when a song is played on the radio, royalties are paid to both the owner of the composition copyright (for the use of the song) and the owner of the sound recording copyright (for the use of the specific recording).
Key Points:
- Separate Rights: A single song can have multiple copyrights—one for the composition and one for each recording.
- Different Owners: The composition copyright might be owned by the songwriter, while the sound recording copyright might be owned by a record label.
- Licensing: Each type of copyright can be licensed independently for different uses.
You're on Chapter 2 of 7