How Can I Check if a Song is Copyrighted (& Protect My Music)

You’ve just written a killer song—the lyrics are on point, the melody is catchy, and you can already picture yourself performing it on stage. But then a thought hits you: what if someone steals it? Can they take your song and claim it as their own? How do you make sure your hard work is protected?

That’s where copyright comes in. Copyright is what stops people from using your music without permission. It can feel a little complicated, but don’t worry!

Whether you’re a teen songwriter making music in your bedroom or a parent helping your child explore their creative side, this guide will break it all down in a fun and simple way. We’ll cover what copyright is, how to check if a song is copyrighted, and how to protect your own music—especially if you’re in the UK.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what steps to take to make sure your songs stay yours.

What Is Copyright?

Imagine you just wrote an amazing song. You spent hours perfecting the lyrics, tweaking the melody, and maybe even recording a rough demo. Now, imagine someone hears it, loves it… and uploads it as their own without asking you. Not cool, right?

That’s where copyright comes in.

Copyright = A “Do Not Steal” Sign for Your Music

Copyright is a legal rule that protects your music from being copied, used, or sold without your permission. Basically, it tells the world: “Hey, I made this, and you can’t take it without my say-so!“

✅ No one can use your song without permission (including big brands or other artists).

✅ You get credit and control over where your music appears.

✅ You can make money when people stream, buy, or license your song.

Copyright vs Royalty Free Music

Copyright music is music that’s protected by copyright laws, meaning the artist or record label owns the rights, and you usually need permission (and often pay) to use it. If you don’t get permission from the copyright owners, you could face legal copyright issues.

On the other hand, royalty-free music lets you use tracks without paying ongoing fees after the initial purchase or download. While you can use it more freely, there might still be some rules or restrictions based on the license, like where or how you can use it.

How Does Copyright Work?

Good news: you automatically own the copyright to your song the moment you create and record it—whether that’s writing the lyrics, composing the melody, or making a voice memo on your phone. You don’t have to do anything special for it to exist.

However, registering your copyright makes it official. This means if someone tries to steal your song, as the copyright holder, you have legal proof that it belongs to you. In the UK, you can register your music with organisations like PRS for Music or the UK Copyright Service to make your claim even stronger.

How Can I Check If a Song Is Copyrighted?

So, you found a popular song and want to use it—but is it copyrighted music? The short answer: probably. Most songs are protected by copyright, but there are ways to tell if a song can be legally used.

1. Check Official Databases

If you’re looking for definite proof, these databases can tell you if a song or piece of music is copyrighted and who owns the rights:

PRS for Music (UK) – The UK’s official music copyright database. If a song is registered here, it’s copyrighted.
U.S. Copyright Office – If the song is American, you can search their database for copyright records.
Other Global Databases – Countries have their own copyright registries, like SOCAN (Canada) and APRA AMCOS (Australia).

If the song isn’t listed, it doesn’t allow you to use it—some artists don’t register their work but still hold copyright.

2. Streaming & YouTube Clues

I am sure if you spend time on social media you would have seen the classic “This song is not available in your country” message. No? Just me?

Big platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music often flag copyrighted songs. If a song is copyrighted:

YouTube may mute your video or block it in certain countries.
Instagram and TikTok usually remove videos that use copyrighted tracks without permission.
Streaming services won’t let you upload copyrighted songs without proper music licensing.

If you try to use a song in a video or post and it gets taken down, it’s copyrighted.

3. The Public Domain Trick

Here’s a quick rule of thumb: Songs published before 1929 are usually copyright-free. Anything newer? You’ll need to check.

Songs in the public domain are free for anyone to use, remix, or perform. Think classic folk songs like Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star—no one’s going to sue you over that one!

4. Cover Songs vs. Original Songs

Just because you can sing a song doesn’t mean you can use it freely. Covers of copyrighted songs still require permission or a special license.

If you want to record and release a cover, you might need a mechanical license (in the UK, you can get one through PRS for Music or MCPS).

Bottom line? If a song isn’t in the public domain or a copyright database, assume it’s protected—until proven otherwise!

How to Copyright a Song (Step-by-Step Guide)

So, you’ve written an amazing song. Maybe it’s a heartfelt ballad, a catchy pop hit, or the next big rap anthem. But how do you make sure no one steals it? Here’s how to get a copyright for your song and protect your hard work.

Step 1: Write & Record It 🎶

As we already noted, copyright happens automatically. The second you write down lyrics, strum out a melody, or record a demo, your song is legally yours.

But if you ever need to prove you wrote it first, having clear evidence helps. So…

Save your handwritten lyrics or typed files.
Keep timestamps from your recordings and voice memos.
Email yourself the song—this acts as a digital timestamp.

Step 2: Register It Officially 📜

Even though copyright is automatic, registering your song makes it official and gives you stronger legal protection. Here’s how:

In the UK: Register with PRS for Music. They handle copyright and make sure you get paid if your song is performed or streamed.
In the U.S.: Use the U.S. Copyright Office. A small fee applies, but it gives you solid legal backing in case of disputes.
For global protection: Consider registering with other copyright agencies, depending on where you plan to distribute your music.

Step 3: Keep Proof of Ownership 📁

Imagine this: You hear your song being played on the radio—but someone else is claiming it! How do you prove it’s yours?

Keep drafts and revisions – They show the evolution of your song.
Store timestamps from recordings – Digital files contain date and time info.
Send yourself a certified letter – Some artists use the “poor man’s copyright” (mailing yourself a sealed copy of the song), but official registration is much better.

Step 4: Consider a PRO (Performing Rights Organisation) 💰

If your music gets played in concerts, on the radio, or on streaming services, you deserve royalties (a fancy word for the money you earn from your songs).

Joining a Performing Rights Organisation (PRO), like PRS for Music, helps you collect those payments.

How to Check If Your Own Songs Are Copyrighted

So, you’ve written a song, but now you’re wondering—is it actually copyrighted content? The short answer: Yes! The moment you create and record it, copyright protection kicks in. But if you haven’t officially registered it, there are a few things to consider.

Did You Register It? 📜

If you’ve officially registered your song with PRS for Music (UK), the U.S. Copyright Office, or another copyright agency, you can easily check your registration status online.

UK: Log into PRS for Music and check your song list.
US: Search the U.S. Copyright Office database to see if your song is listed.
Other countries: Many have similar online databases where you can check your registration.

If you haven’t registered it, your song is still copyrighted, but proving ownership might be trickier.

What If Someone Uses It Without Permission? 🚨

If you find out someone has used your song without permission, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:

Gather proof – Find your original recordings, timestamps, drafts, and anything that proves you wrote it first.
Contact the person or platform – A polite message can sometimes resolve the issue without legal action.
File a copyright claim – If it’s on YouTube, Spotify, or social media, you can submit a copyright takedown request.
Get legal help – If the issue escalates, a music lawyer or your country’s copyright office can guide you.

3 Common Copyright Myths

There are some common myths about copyright that can confuse even the most dedicated songwriters. Let’s bust these myths so you know exactly where you stand when it comes to protecting your music.

1. “If I Post It Online, It’s Automatically Protected”

Not exactly! While it’s true that copyright kicks in when you create and record your song, posting it online doesn’t automatically register it with a copyright authority.

Posting your song on platforms like Instagram or SoundCloud doesn’t give you official protection. To make your copyright “official,” you need to register it with the appropriate copyright office.

2. “If I Change a Few Notes, It’s a New Song”

Nope! You might think that if you change a few notes, you can claim the song as your own, but that’s not how copyright works. Even small changes in melody, harmony, or lyrics can still be considered copyright infringement if the original is recognisable.

Fair use doesn’t give you the right to use someone else’s work, even if you think it’s “transformed.” Always create original ideas, or get permission if you’re using someone else’s work.

3. “Copyright Lasts Forever”

It’s long, but not forever. In most countries, copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years. After that, the work enters the public domain, meaning anyone can use it without permission. But don’t worry—this isn’t an issue until your music is really, really old!

Protect Your Songs Like a Pro

To wrap it up, copyright is the simple legal tool that makes sure no one else can steal your creative work, and it’s not as complicated as it might seem. The moment you create and record your song, you automatically own it—but registering your work makes it even more secure. Whether you’re just starting out or already writing hits, protecting your music is an important step.

So, keep writing, keep creating, and most importantly—don’t be afraid to protect your unknown or popular music. It’s your art, and it deserves to be respected. And remember, you’ve got the tools to make it happen—register your songs, keep your proof, and if you need help, ask the pros!

Stay creative, stay protected, and let the music flow!