How to Distribute Cover Songs: A Complete Guide for Musicians
For musicians looking to expand their repertoire and reach new audiences, cover songs can be a powerful tool. However, distributing covers isn't as straightforward as releasing original music due to licensing requirements and copyright considerations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to distribute cover songs legally, effectively, and profitably.
Whether you're an indie artist just starting out or an established musician wanting to pay tribute to your influences, understanding the proper way to distribute cover songs can help you avoid legal issues while maximizing your music's potential.
What Exactly Is a Cover Song?
Before diving into distribution, let's clarify what qualifies as a cover song. A cover song is a new performance or recording of a previously released track by someone other than the original artist. When you record your version of someone else's composition, you're creating a cover.
Cover songs differ from samples or remixes in that you're performing the entire composition rather than incorporating portions of the original recording. This distinction is crucial when it comes to licensing and distribution rights.
Understanding Music Copyright for Cover Songs
To distribute cover songs legally, you need to understand the two main types of copyright in music:
Composition Copyright
This belongs to the songwriter(s) who created the melody and lyrics. When distributing a cover song, you'll need permission to use this intellectual property through what's known as a "mechanical license."
Sound Recording Copyright
This belongs to whoever owns the master recording (typically the artist or record label). The good news is that when creating a cover, you're producing your own sound recording, so you only need to address the composition copyright.
Understanding these distinctions is essential because failing to secure proper licenses can result in takedowns, fines, or even legal action.
The Legal Requirements: Obtaining Proper Licenses
Before you distribute a cover song, you must secure the appropriate licenses. Here's what you need to know:
Mechanical Licenses
A mechanical license gives you permission to record and distribute someone else's composition. In the United States, these licenses are subject to "compulsory licensing," meaning songwriters must allow others to cover their songs once they've been commercially released, provided proper procedures are followed and royalties are paid.
The current statutory mechanical royalty rate in the US is 9.1 cents per song per unit for songs under 5 minutes (with longer songs costing more). These rates can change, so always verify current rates before proceeding.
How to Obtain a Mechanical License
You have several options for securing mechanical licenses:
The MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective): For digital distribution in the US, the MLC handles blanket licenses for streaming platforms.
Music Publishers directly: For larger projects, you might contact publishers directly.
Harry Fox Agency: A leading provider of mechanical licensing and royalty calculation services.
Easy Song Licensing: Offers simplified licensing for individual artists and smaller projects.
Distribution platforms: Many digital distributors now offer built-in licensing services.
Sync Licenses
If you plan to use your cover song in videos, films, or other visual media, you'll also need a synchronization (sync) license. This is separate from the mechanical license and must be negotiated directly with the publisher.
Distribution Platforms That Handle Cover Song Licensing
To simplify the process of distributing cover songs, many artists turn to digital distribution platforms that offer integrated licensing solutions. Here are some top options:
DistroKid
DistroKid has become a favorite among independent artists for its indie music distribution services. Their "Coverlicense" feature allows you to secure mechanical licenses for your cover songs during the upload process for an additional fee (typically $12 per cover song). This covers the licensing paperwork and pays royalties to the original songwriters.
Pros:
Seamless integration with your distribution workflow
Flat fee structure (no ongoing royalties beyond statutory rates)
Quick turnaround time
Cons:
Limited to US licensing only
Not all songs may be available for licensing through their system
CD Baby
CD Baby offers cover song licensing as part of their distribution service. They partner with Songfile (from Harry Fox Agency) to secure licenses for a fee per song.
Pros:
Established service with good reputation
One-stop solution for physical and digital distribution
Cons:
Higher upfront costs compared to some competitors
Per-song licensing fees are in addition to distribution costs
TuneCore
TuneCore offers cover song licensing through their partnership with Songfile, allowing you to purchase mechanical licenses during the distribution process.
Pros:
Large catalog of licensable songs
Straightforward process
Cons:
Annual renewal fees for distribution
Separate licensing fees apply
Soundrop
Formerly Loudr, Soundrop specializes in cover song distribution and licensing, making it an excellent choice for artists who primarily release covers.
Pros:
Specializes in cover song distribution
No annual fees
Revenue share model instead of upfront licensing costs
Cons:
The revenue share model means they take a percentage of your earnings
More limited distribution network than some competitors
Step-by-Step Guide to Distributing Your Cover Songs
Now that you understand the legal requirements and available platforms, let's walk through the process of distributing your cover songs:
1. Record Your Cover Song
Create your unique interpretation of the song. Remember that your sound recording copyright belongs to you, even though the composition copyright belongs to the original songwriter(s).
2. Identify the Copyright Holders
Research who owns the publishing rights to the song you're covering. This information can typically be found through:
ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC databases
The MLC database
Music publisher websites
The original album's liner notes
3. Choose Your Licensing Method
Decide whether to obtain licenses directly or through a distribution platform with integrated licensing services. For most independent artists, the latter option is more convenient.
4. Prepare Your Release
Create professional artwork, write compelling descriptions, and prepare metadata for your release. Be sure to properly credit the original songwriters in your release information.
5. Upload and Distribute
Upload your cover song to your chosen distribution platform, complete the licensing process as directed, and select your release date and distribution outlets.
6. Promote Your Cover
Develop a marketing strategy specifically for your cover song. This might include:
Creating a music video (which may require additional licensing)
Reaching out to fans of the original artist
Sharing the story behind why you chose to cover this particular song
Creating a musician website to showcase your cover songs alongside original material
7. Monitor and Report
Keep track of your streams and sales, and ensure your distributor is properly reporting usage and paying mechanical royalties to the original rights holders.
Making Money from Cover Songs
While you'll need to pay mechanical royalties to the original songwriters, you can still profit from your cover songs in several ways:
Streaming Revenue
You'll receive the artist's share of streaming royalties from platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and others. After the mechanical royalty is paid to the original songwriter, the remaining revenue is yours.
Direct Sales
You can sell your cover songs on platforms like Bandcamp or your own website. Just remember to account for mechanical royalties in your pricing.
Performance Royalties
When your cover song is played on radio, TV, or in public venues, you're entitled to the performer's share of performance royalties through your PRO (ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC).
Live Performances
Cover songs can be a crowd-pleasing addition to your live sets. Venues typically have blanket licenses that cover the performance of copyrighted material.
Strategic Considerations for Cover Songs
Beyond the legal and technical aspects, there are strategic elements to consider when distributing cover songs:
Choosing the Right Songs to Cover
The most effective cover songs often fall into these categories:
Popular classics with built-in search volume
Trending songs that are currently getting attention
Unexpected covers that reimagine songs from different genres
Songs with personal meaning that allow you to tell a story to your audience
Consider both your artistic connection to the song and its strategic marketing potential.
Making Your Cover Stand Out
The most successful covers bring something new to the original composition:
Change the genre or style (like turning a rock song into a jazz standard)
Adjust the tempo or time signature
Add new instrumental sections or arrangements
Bring your unique vocal interpretation
The goal is to honor the original while making it distinctly yours.
Timing Your Release
Strategic timing can amplify your cover song's impact:
Anniversaries of the original song or album
During relevant cultural moments or holidays
When the original artist is in the news
As part of a themed project or series
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When distributing cover songs, watch out for these common mistakes:
Failing to Obtain Proper Licenses
This is the most critical error and can lead to your music being removed from platforms, financial penalties, or legal action. Always secure mechanical licenses before distribution.
Misidentifying the Composition Owner
Many songs have multiple songwriters or complex publishing arrangements. Ensure you've identified all rights holders correctly.
Modifying Lyrics Without Permission
The compulsory mechanical license only covers the song as written. If you want to substantially change lyrics or melody, you'll need explicit permission from the publisher.
Ignoring International Copyright Considerations
Copyright laws vary by country. If you're distributing globally, be aware that some territories may have different requirements.
Overlooking the Need for Sync Licenses
If you create a music video for your cover song, you'll need a synchronization license in addition to the mechanical license. Don't skip this crucial step.
Advanced Strategies for Cover Song Success
Take your cover song distribution to the next level with these advanced approaches:
Cover Song Campaigns
Instead of releasing single covers sporadically, consider a coordinated campaign:
Themed collections (e.g., songs from a particular decade or artist)
Cover EPs or albums
Regular cover song series (like "Cover Friday" releases)
Collaboration Opportunities
Cover songs present excellent collaboration possibilities:
Partner with other artists to cover songs together
Create "tribute" projects involving multiple artists
Reach out to the original artist for potential cross-promotion
Leveraging Video Platforms
Platforms like YouTube and TikTok have become launchpads for successful covers:
Create video content for your covers (with proper sync licensing)
Participate in cover song trends on TikTok
Build a YouTube channel featuring both covers and originals
Remember that video platforms require additional considerations for proper licensing.
The Future of Cover Song Distribution
The landscape for cover songs continues to evolve with technology and industry changes:
Blockchain and Automated Licensing
Emerging blockchain solutions aim to streamline the licensing process, potentially making it easier and more transparent to secure rights for covers.
AI-Generated Music Considerations
As AI tools for music creation become more prevalent, the lines between covers, samples, and original works are blurring. Stay informed about how these technologies affect licensing requirements.
Direct Artist-to-Artist Licensing
Some platforms are developing tools that allow artists to directly license songs from each other, potentially simplifying the cover song process.
Case Studies: Successful Cover Song Strategies
Learning from artists who've effectively leveraged cover songs can provide valuable insights:
Postmodern Jukebox
This collective built an entire brand around vintage-style covers of modern pop songs. Their strategy includes:
Consistent visual and musical aesthetic across all covers
Regular release schedule
Featuring rotating vocalists and musicians
Strong video content that showcases their unique style
Weezer's "Teal Album"
The rock band surprised fans with an entire album of covers, including their viral version of Toto's "Africa." Their approach worked because:
They responded to fan demand
They maintained their signature sound while honoring the originals
The project created buzz between their original album releases
Indie Artists Breaking Through
Many independent artists have used strategic covers to build their audience:
Choosing songs with high search volume but less competition
Creating unique interpretations that showcase their style
Using covers strategically to introduce listeners to their original music
Conclusion: Making Cover Songs Work for Your Music Career
Distributing cover songs can be a powerful strategy for growing your audience, showcasing your artistry, and creating additional revenue streams. By understanding the legal requirements, choosing the right distribution partners, and approaching covers with both creativity and strategy, you can effectively incorporate them into your music career.
Remember that the most successful cover songs honor the original while bringing something new to the composition. With proper licensing, thoughtful artistic choices, and strategic distribution, your cover songs can become valuable assets in your musical portfolio.
Whether you're covering a timeless classic or putting your spin on a current hit, the key is to approach the process with respect for the original creators, clarity about legal requirements, and a clear vision for how your interpretation adds value for listeners.
Ready to start distributing your cover songs? Begin by researching the songs you want to cover, exploring the distribution platforms mentioned in this guide, and developing a release strategy that integrates these covers with your original music and overall brand.
With careful planning and execution, your cover songs can help you connect with new fans, demonstrate your musical versatility, and build a more sustainable music career.