Can I post my own cover song on YouTube?

When someone records and releases a song, you are free to do your own cover version of that song by obtaining a mechanical or “compulsory” license. Therefore, you need a synch license as well as a mechanical license to legally publish a cover song on YouTube (unless the song has fallen into public domain).

How do I get permission to record a cover song?

In the U.S., there are three ways to obtain a mechanical license for a cover song: (1) through the compulsory licensing procedure established by law; (2) from the Harry Fox Agency if they administer the musical composition for the song; or (3) directly from the publisher of the song.

How do you title a song cover?

Enter the original song title of your cover. Avoid the temptation to edit the title for flavor. Stick to the facts. Hot tip: Don’t put “(cover)” or “cover version” in the title.

How can I record a song cover at home?

Here are some simple ways in which you can record clearer, more professional sounding covers at home, without spending too much money.

1. Smartphones – perfect to record good cover song at home.
2. Earphones/Headphones with Mic.
3. Karaoke App.
4. Location – Set up for good audio recording.
5. Location – Set up for good video shoot.

How can I legally sing cover songs?

Cover Song Licensing The song’s copyright owner must give you a mechanical license if you pay a royalty fee based on estimated revenue from your cover song. You can obtain a mechanical license through the Harry Fox Agency. The mechanical license only covers the audio portion of your YouTube cover.

Can you cover songs without permission?

Once the song is released, anyone can do a cover of it and sell it without asking permission. The composers of the songs will get royalties, no matter who sings the song – but the performer only gets royalties if they’re the one singing on the recording.