Copyright law on music

Can you get copyrighted on music?
Copyright simply means that only the Creator of a work (like a song, story, poem or video) has the right to make copies, unless that Creator extends permission.
So every song is automatically copyrighted the moment it's created..
What music is copyrighted?
From the legal perspective, with exception of music that is already in public domain (a.k.a.
REALLY old), all music is copyrighted.
This applies to both the compositions (the melody and lyrics) and their actual recordings..
By default, you must assume that any copyrighted music is protected by law and you may NOT use it.
You have to be extra careful before using any copyrighted content.
Remember, only the court of law can definitively decide whether your use case falls under “fair use” provision.
Copyright free music refers to music that can be used freely by anyone.
Without a copyright, the content can be used without restriction.
Yet, no song is really without copyright because musicians are granted natural copyright for any produced work.
Unfortunately, there are no fixed standards as to how much of a song you can use without infringing the song owner's copyright.
Of course, the shorter you can make the clip, the stronger your argument for fair use protection.

Music copyright designates legal ownership of a musical composition or sound recording. This ownership includes exclusive rights to redistribute and reproduce the work, as well as licensing rights that enable the copyright holder to earn royalties.

Is music protected by copyright laws?

Trademarks protect brands.
Trade Secrets protect business secrets.
Music itself is protected by copyright law.
If a musician invents a new instrument or a new part for an instrument, those are protectable under patent law.
The music itself, including:

the lyrics

the musical composition and sound recording are protected under copyright law.

Is my music protected by copyright?

Your song's music and lyrics are protected by copyright as soon as you record them, even if it's just a rough recording on your cell phone.
But to get the full benefit of copyright protection, including:

the right to sue people for infringing your copyright

you must register it with the U.S.
Copyright Office.

Copyright law on music

Can you get copyrighted on music?

What music is copyrighted?

Is music protected by copyright laws?

Is my music protected by copyright?