Guide
How to Cover a Song Legally
How to release a cover song legally — mechanical licences, what you can and can't copy, and how to stay compliant on streaming.
Covering a song is legal with the right licences. This guide explains mechanical licensing, the boundaries of a legal cover, and how to release one safely.
Steps
1 Understand what a cover is
A cover is your own performance of a song's composition. You may not copy the original recording's arrangement or imitate the master.
- Create your own interpretation
- Don't sample the original recording without clearance
2 Get a mechanical licence
Obtain a mechanical licence from a licensing agency or your distributor, which covers reproducing the composition and pays the writer.
- Compulsory licensing covers released compositions in many territories
- Report usage and pay the statutory royalties
3 Keep the lyrics intact
Changing lyrics requires a special licence — altering words without permission isn't covered by a standard mechanical licence.
- Translated lyrics may also need approval
- Keep your arrangement original
4 Release through your distributor
When uploading, confirm you hold the mechanical licence. Streaming platforms and distributors handle the royalty flow to writers.
- Zaventra Music Group can guide compliant cover releases
- Keep your licence documentation organised
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permission from the original artist?
For the composition, a mechanical licence suffices in most territories. You need permission only to use the original recording itself.
Can I monetise a cover?
Yes, with a valid mechanical licence — royalties are paid to the writer through the licensing system.
What if I record a live cover?
Live covers in venues are covered by the venue's performance licence; releasing a recorded version still needs a mechanical licence.