HOW TO REMIX ANY SONG LEGALLY AND NEVER GET SUED!
Remixing songs can be super enjoyable. However, if you don’t follow the rules, you might accidentally get yourself into trouble.
When do you need permissions?
For remixes that you wish to utilize commercially, you’ll first need permission from the song’s proprietors. Any usage that includes publicly sharing the remix or earning money from it is considered commercial. You don’t need permission if you’re not going to upload this remix to a streaming site, play it in public, or make any money off of it. If you want to perform any of the above, you must first get authorization, otherwise you may be prosecuted for copyright infringement.
Permissions Required To Publicly Publish/Play A Remix
So, you’ve chosen to utilize your remix for commercial purposes, and that’s great! So, how do you go about doing so without risking being sued? You’d need authorization from the songwriting and master copyright owners to do so legally. Because these copyrights are distinct, you’ll need authorization from two different parties.
Who are the owners of them?
The songwriting royalties are usually owned by the song’s writer(s), while the master royalties are owned by the publishing firm and the performer. However, you should ask the publishing company/artist who the proprietors are, since they may differ. You may even ask them to get authorization from the song’s other proprietors on your behalf.
How to Obtain Permissions More Quickly
If you’re having trouble obtaining permission to remix music, here’s a list of things you can try to improve your luck:
1. Work on your email and direct message (DM) writing abilities.
People often have difficulty obtaining permission to remix a song because they do not properly seek it. As a result, it’s critical to know how to craft convincing emails/DMs that persuade the recipient to want you to remix the music.
When writing to an artist, do it in this manner.
First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that although it’s great to express that you like the artist’s work, it’s equally critical not to exaggerate. Because if you do, they may dismiss your request as unprofessional. You should be aware that regardless of how well-known or famous an artist is, they are still a human being. As a result, you should not see them as superior. That is something that the majority of people dislike. It’s also preferable to address them by their actual first name; it’s more intimate. Though if this information is difficult to find, using their stage name might be better.
When writing to a publishing house, do it in this manner.
The most essential thing to remember when writing to a publishing house is to be formal. It does not imply that you must speak in a sophisticated tone or use just large words. Slang, on the other hand, should be avoided at all costs.
2. Increase your investment on social media and streaming platforms.
Most musicians would want their songs remixed. They would, however, prefer someone they know who is skilled and well-known to do so. Their name is on your remix after all.
If you keep being turned down while asking to remix songs, it’s usually an indication that you need to focus more on growing your fan base and raising your profile. It will get simpler to speak with artists and publishing firms as your fan following grows and you become more well-known. They may even contact you and request that you remix their new song.
3. Make an effort to contact lesser-known artists.
If you keep being rejected by well-known musicians or major labels, try remixing lesser-known songs first. If you do, you’ll acquire more experience and fame, as well as a stronger résumé to show to well-known musicians when you approach them next time. Furthermore, if the artist becomes well-known in the future, working with them will be simpler since they already know you.
Is It Legal To Play The Remix In Clubs?
It would be acceptable to play your remixes at clubs as long as you have permission to do so. Even if you play it without authorization, you are unlikely to be sued since the club should carry all legal liability. However, they are unlikely to accept a DJ who has already been sued. Furthermore, it has the potential to severely harm your reputation. As a result, it’s generally best to wait until you receive permission.
Is it okay if I upload the remix on YouTube or Soundcloud?
Putting your remix on Youtube and Soundcloud, just like in clubs, is acceptable as long as you get permission. All you’d have to do is name the copyright holders in the song’s description and divide the profits with them fairly. You won’t be sued if you post it without permission since Youtube/Soundcloud bears full legal liability. However, the remix will most likely be taken down, and you’ll have to pay the copyright owners every penny you earned from it.
Are Remixes Copyrighted Protected?
A remix will be copyright protected as long as it was produced lawfully and the producers do not want it to be royalty-free. The remixer, on the other hand, is typically paid up front and does not get royalties unless otherwise negotiated.
