Copyright vs. Master Rights
What You Actually Own When You Release a Song
Two Layers, Two Owners (Usually)
Every piece of music has two rights layers:
- Copyright – this refers to the composition (melody, lyrics, structure).→ Typically owned by the songwriter or publisher.
- Master Rights – this refers to the recording (the actual audio file).→ Typically owned by the label or whoever paid for the recording.
If you write and record your own music independently, you own both.
But the moment you work with others – or sign a deal – these rights may be split between different parties.
Copyright (Composition Rights)
This is about the song as a concept – even if no recording exists yet.
Covers:
- Melody
- Lyrics
- Song structure
- Chord progressions (in context)
Governs:
- Sheet music rights
- Live performance income
- Royalties from publishing (via GEMA, PRS, ASCAP, etc.)
Master Rights (Recording Rights)
This is the sound recording itself – the finished audio file you release.
Covers:
- The vocal/instrumental recording
- Mixing, production, arrangement
- Alternate versions, remixes, stems
Governs:
- Streaming income
- Sync licensing of the recording
- Use in videos, films, ads
Why the Difference Matters
- If someone covers your song:→ You earn from copyright, not from the new recording.
- If someone streams your original track:→ You earn from the master, and possibly also from publishing, if you’re the songwriter.
- If you sign a label deal and give them the master rights:→ They control the recording, even if you still own the song underneath.
Summary
Master = sound. Copyright = song.
If you don’t know who owns what, you risk losing both.
Before releasing or licensing anything, get clear:
- Who owns the recording?
- Who wrote the song?
- Who collects royalties from each side?
For a deeper dive into publishing structures and rights management, see our publishing insights here.
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