Basic Guide to Copyright and Master Rights in Music

Written By Luciano Esposito

1. Types of Rights in Music

In the music industry, two main rights exist:

Copyright (Composition Rights) – Protects the musical composition and lyrics.
Master Rights (Recording Rights) – Protects the recorded version of a song.

These rights are typically owned by the songwriter, composer, or their publishing company.

A master is the original recording of a song. Whoever owns the master rights controls:

Generally, the master is owned by the record label or the artist (if independent).

The duration varies depending on the country's laws. Typically:

European Union & Switzerland: 70 years after the death of the last surviving author.
USA:
- Works published after 1978: 70 years after the author’s death.
- Works with multiple authors: 70 years after the last surviving author’s death.
- Anonymous or commissioned works: 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation (whichever expires first).

After expiration, the work enters the public domain, meaning anyone can use it without paying royalties.

Master rights also have different expiration periods depending on local laws:

EU & Switzerland: 70 years from the first release.
USA:
- Recordings before 1972: Protected under state laws.
- Recordings after 1972: Protected for 95 years from release.

After expiration, the master enters the public domain, but the recording may still be controlled if it has been remastered or modified.

Register your song with collecting societies (ASCAP, BMI, SIAE, SUISA, etc.).
Register your master with distributors and rights management platforms.
Use blockchain or digital tools to certify ownership.

If you have doubts about a song or want to manage your rights properly, consulting a music law attorney is always recommended.