How to Register My Songs and Why I Should Do It

Registering your songs is an essential step to protect your intellectual property and ensure you receive all the royalties you are entitled to. According to recent statistics, more than 60% of professional artists register their works through some copyright organization. This practice not only allows them to receive payments for the public performances of their music but also protects against unauthorized use of their works.

However, a considerable number of artists still do not register their songs. It is estimated that around 40% of independent and emerging musicians do not take the necessary steps to protect their intellectual property. This could be due to a lack of knowledge about the registration process or the misconception that it is complicated or expensive. As a result, many of these artists do not receive the royalties they are entitled to and are more exposed to legal disputes.

In this blog, we will explore the reasons why you should register your songs, the most popular platforms for doing so, and how you can register your music from countries like Colombia, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Argentina, and Venezuela.

Why You Should Register Your Songs

Legal Protection

Registering your songs provides essential legal protection. If someone uses your music without permission, having your songs registered makes it easier to take legal action against them. Without registration, it is much harder to prove that you are the copyright owner.

Royalties

Proper registration ensures that you receive all the royalties generated by the use of your music. These include royalties for reproduction, public performance, synchronization, and more. Without registration, you may not receive payment for the use of your music on various platforms and media.

Control and Management

Registering your songs allows you to have more efficient control and management of your work. You can monitor where and how your music is being used, which helps you make informed decisions about future licenses and distributions.

Platforms for Registering Your Songs

There are several platforms that facilitate the registration of your songs, each with its own functions and benefits. Below are some of the most popular ones, divided into three categories:

Performance Rights Organizations (PROs)

• BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.): One of the largest copyright organizations in the United States, specializing in public performance rights management. Registering your songs with BMI ensures you receive payments for public performances of your music in places like concerts, radio, television, and other public venues.
• ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers): Another leading organization in public performance rights management. Similar to BMI, ASCAP collects and distributes royalties for the public performances of your music. It offers an extensive network of music monitoring and royalty distribution to its members.

Publishers

• Songtrust: A global music rights management platform that helps songwriters and publishers collect all their royalties. Songtrust manages both public performance and mechanical royalties and has a wide network of agreements with copyright organizations worldwide.
• Kobalt: A modern music publisher providing copyright management, distribution, and publishing services. Kobalt uses advanced technology to track music usage and ensure songwriters receive all the royalties they are entitled to.
• Sentric Music: A platform offering copyright management and music publishing services. Sentric focuses on maximizing songwriters' royalties through a global network of agreements with copyright societies.

Distributors

• DistroKid: A digital distribution platform that allows musicians to upload their music to streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Although DistroKid does not directly manage copyright, it is an essential tool for distributing your music globally and ensuring it is available on all relevant platforms.
• TuneCore: Another popular digital distribution platform that allows musicians to distribute their music to online stores and streaming services. TuneCore also offers additional services like copyright management and royalty collection.
• CD Baby: A digital distribution platform offering a full range of services for independent musicians, including distribution, copyright management, and royalty collection. CD Baby also helps artists earn additional income through synchronization licenses and physical sales.

How Often Should You Register Your Songs?

It is recommended to register your songs as soon as you complete them and before distributing them publicly. This includes uploading them to streaming platforms, sharing them on social media, or performing them live. Registering your songs immediately ensures your intellectual property is protected from the moment you share it with the world.

How to Register Your Songs from Your Home Country

Colombia

In Colombia, you can register your songs through the National Directorate of Copyright (DNDA). The process is straightforward and can be done online through their official platform. Additionally, it is recommended to register with SAYCO (Society of Authors and Composers of Colombia) to manage public performance royalties.

Mexico

In Mexico, you must register your songs with the National Institute of Copyright (INDAUTOR). The registration can be done online through their portal. It is also important to register with SACM (Society of Authors and Composers of Mexico) for royalty management.

Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, the National Copyright Office (ONDA) is the entity responsible for song registration. You can register in their offices or through their website. SGAE (General Society of Authors and Publishers) also offers copyright management services in this country.

Argentina

In Argentina, song registration is done through the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). The process can be completed online. Additionally, it is advisable to register with SADAIC (Argentine Society of Authors and Composers of Music) for public performance royalty management.

Venezuela

In Venezuela, the institution responsible for song registration is the Autonomous Intellectual Property Service (SAPI). The registration can be done in person at their offices. It is also important to register with SACVEN (Society of Authors and Composers of Venezuela) to manage royalties.

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Registering your songs is a crucial step to protect your music, ensure you receive all the royalties, and maintain control over your work. Using platforms like BMI, ASCAP, Songtrust, Kobalt, Sentric Music, DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby can facilitate this process and ensure your music is protected globally. Don’t forget to register your songs immediately and follow the specific procedures in your country to ensure proper management of your copyright.