Cover Songs: Everything You Need To Know About Cover Songs
Cover songs are a great way to get heard and recognised as an artist. Covering another artist’s material or song isn’t much of a problem when in a live environment. However, if you want to record and distribute that song as a record or a download, you’re going to need to consider a number of things.
What Is A Cover Song?
A cover song is a performance or recording of an existing song by someone other than the original performing artist. You do not need permission to cover a song live. Performances in the UK are covered by a venue’s PRS license but cover songs will need their own license.
Why Use A Cover Song?
Creative interpretation and licensing costs are the main reasons as to why cover songs are so popular in sync. Whilst cover songs aren’t completely original, having an artist put their own creative spin on a popular track is an exciting way to bring originality to a project. It does this whilst maintaining the underlying messages of a well-known song.
Additionally, cover versions are cheaper to licence than the original recording. This is due to the fact that the master recording is available at much lower licensing costs.
What License Do You Need For A Cover Song?
In the UK, you will require a mechanical licence in order for you to record and distribute physical copies of your cover song. This ranges from CDs and cassettes and also includes digital downloads.
For the most part, copyrighted music in the UK will be registered with PRS for Music. This is where you will need to go to acquire the mechanical licence for a song. In most audio-only cases, an AP1 or AP2 mechanical licence will be sufficient.
If the song is not on the PRS for Music database, this means that it isn’t covered by UK copyright law. Instead, you’ll need to seek permission and come to an agreement with the original writer or their publisher. However, this depends on who possesses the rights to the song.
How Much Does Sync License Cost For A Cover Song?
In most cases, a sync license for cover songs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
Placing a song to video, even if it’s a cover song requires a sync or synchronization license. Obtaining a cover song sync license can be more difficult than the mechanical license. You will need to go straight to the music publisher or compose to ask for their permission.
You need to submit a formal request where you will be quoted a licensing fee to use the song. Even if they allow you to release a video, the fees can be quite high.
Can I Use A Cover Song In My Film?
As long as you have received permission from the artist and acquired the correct license, i.e. sync license, you can use a cover song in your film.
Do You Need Permission To Cover A Song?
You do not need permission to cover a song.
However, if you wish to generate revenue from your cover and put it out for distribution, you will need a mechanical license for cover song.
How Music Gateway Can Help
As a leading sync agent, Music Gateway represents the master rights to many cover songs and we’re keen to represent yours. Be sure to get into contact with us for your cover song clearance; sync is what we’re best at!
If you want a bespoke cover, Music gateway has you covered. Music Gateway has a network of highly talented creatives ready to flip a track. We’re here to create the perfect bespoke cover for your project no matter what direction you take us in.
Our Final Thoughts
We’ve touched on everything you need to know about cover songs. We’ve discussed the licenses you need to consider as well as how Music Gateway can help you in the realm of sync. Be sure to get in touch with us today!