Copyright boils down the creator enjoying the financial benefits of their own original work. The insight we wish to share is that understanding the bundle of rights copyright includes and the protection it entails ensures that the creator keeps money in their own pocket. In other words, the creator is entitled to the profits of their music and if someone else tries to use the music without permission then you are able to take legal action. Proper registration of copyright is undeniable proof that the song belongs to the author should legal action be required. This knowledge is a great asset to have in the music industry because authors of creative works are entitled to royalties when it comes to public performance or reproduction of their songs. The caveat here is that when you register your copyright there are three things that you are declaring. You are declaring that your work is original, that you have fixated the song in some mechanical/tangible form and that you are a qualified person. Qualified person here means that you are a citizen or resident of the country you are seeking copyright protection from. Most countries adhere to the Berne Convention (1886) which is an international standard that details the minimum standards relating to the protection of copyrighted works. As you can see, arming yourself with this knowledge prevents you from being taken advantage of and receiving the fruits of your labour. In the coming weeks we will detail some of the royalties that songwriters and artists are entitled to. Enjoy Your Weekend!
WIPO Website:
CIPO Website:
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US Copyright Website:
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