All artists must seek permission to post a cover song not in the public domain on their YouTube channel.Here are some rules you must follow to upload a YouTube cover song: There are a number of misunderstandings surrounding the use of YouTube covers. How do you legally post cover songs on YouTube? Music you've been granted permission to use from the copyright owner directly.Copyright Office, you can use music that falls into one of two categories: This is a great way for a band to expand its audience internationally without having to go on a world tour.Īccording to the U.S. Others may choose to change the original version by adding their own touch or making a music video of a cover song. Some musical acts may choose to play someone else's song strictly as it is known popularly by the original artist. Here's what you need to know about posting cover songs on YouTube.Ī cover song or cover version is a musician's personal interpretation of a song composed by another artist. But there are also pitfalls.Ĭreators need to take steps to avoid getting into legal trouble for making a cover song or cover video, and being aware of basic tenets of intellectual property law will go a long way toward protecting you. YouTube cover songs are a great way for unknown or indie artists in the music business to pique fans' interest and can help grow a channel. If you're a musician growing your audience, you've probably considered posting cover songs on YouTube.

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