Distributing a "cover" or version of a song written by another songwriter is a great way to connect with new audiences, but it requires compliance with the music industry's legal copyright regulations.
1. What is a Mechanical License?
A Mechanical License It is the legal permission granted by the publisher or owner of the musical composition to reproduce, record and distribute said composition in physical or digital format (streaming and downloads). When you make a cover, you do not own the lyrics or the melody (the composition), so you must ensure that the original composers receive the corresponding mechanical royalties.
2. How royalty distribution works in Covers
- Streaming Platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, etc.): In most countries, streaming stores discount and directly pay mechanical and performance royalties to collecting societies (such as ASCAP, BMI, SACM) before paying master royalties to the distributor. Therefore, basic distribution to these platforms is covered automatically.
- Digital Downloads and Sales (iTunes, etc.) in the US and other markets: To sell downloads of a cover, it is mandatory to process a Mechanical License paid for each copy sold.
3. Secure Distribution through Easy Song at 1M Music Group
To avoid copyright blocks or copyright claims on global platforms, at 1M Music Group we provide you with the tools and guidance necessary to process your cover licenses quickly and 100% legally through our trusted commercial partner. Easy Song. They manage the corresponding authorization with global copyright owners in record time, allowing you to distribute your music with absolute peace of mind.