Q&A: how do i properly get my music copyrighted?
Question by enjoli h: how do i properly get my music copyrighted?
i’m an up & coming producer/songwriter.. i want to sell both the lyrics & instrumental to a specific artist with an interest in it, however i’m not 100% sure as to which form to have it registered under. i would like to have them copyrighted seperately, which forms do i file them for?
also, when discussing royalties with the artist, how do i go about that. i believe there’s a contract involved with that but where can i get the contract? also, if you can give me your opinion as to how the roalites need to be divided with me being the original/only songwriter as well as producer for the track & the singer singing solo?
i know i’m asking alot & i will be seeking an entertainment lawyer soon lol but in the meantime i would appreciate some advice so if anyone can help, that would be a pleasure. thanks for reading. hope to hear what you got to say.
Best answer:
Answer by Connie
(This answer assumes you are in the U.S.)
Getting a copyright is not difficult. You send a copy of the work/s to the Library of Congress in Washington DC, along with the proper form (probably short form PA) and a check for $ 45 or so. The proper forms and instructions can be found at http://www.copyright.gov/
As for contract, if you are not sure of the meaning of, or agree to, every word in a contract, don’t sign it. An agent can be helpful here. A music agent represents the talent, and negotiates the contracts on his/her behalf. An entertainment lawyer can do that, but you just want someone to negotiate, not litigate, right?
Good luck.
What do you think? Answer below!