United States

They recently changed the requirements of what may be submitted electronically, and what must be mailed . . . check, first . . .

In about a week I'm sending in my compilation as is. Having looked over here it IS the only way though there are other methods too. The one thing that is striking in all of this is the fact that there are no guarantees what so ever, you are just documenting it in case YOU should decide to do something about it in any eventuality?

I cannot see myself doing that, even if anything should happen but if its the way, its the way.

Well to be totally honest Sentient yes I'm setting this all up to run in hand with two other projects later this years. For that alone it is important that I do everything properly frankly.
This is all good advice folks. Thanks very much.

Are you planning to publish or put it up for sale?
I wouldn't bother paying the fee for anything unless I'm getting ready to sell. It's not worth it.
You're already covered by copyright law, registered or not. Just keep good records and digital files that prove you did it when you did it.
If someone bothers to steal it, and doesn't make any money from it, there's basically nothing to sue them for. If they steal it an make millions, then by all means, hire an attorney.
If you don't think any of the above is likely, why bother paying the fee at all?
Every person I've spoken with that has actually published and/or sold their music has said the same thing.
If you aren't getting ready to sign a publishing contract, record deal, or to sell the stuff yourself, don't bother with registering.

Understood, I still go ahead however since its not much in any case.
Thanks Sentient.

This might turn a few heads.

you have ample proof that you are indeed the creator.

Ya know, I'm waiting for some independent person or co to take over this copyright problem. I'll bet, if you have some worthy outfit with some common sense, we could take the gov't right out of the equation, & still be able to provide proof of ownership.

There are a number so I've found out Phil. Unfortunately they are just middle men over here, (of course). Which eventually just post your stuff to the gov site anyway.

I said some weeks ago too I believe about the hard drive really killing off any chance of someone saying its not yours but even if you touch it the file will update with the latest changes, including dating. They do have devices that can go 500 layers deep on a hard drive, this is how they catch the villains. (Nothing you say is hidden) etc. I'm sure it would apply to that too if you are prepared to go that far? Works for them in court right?

I dunno mate. Tough as it is and for 35 buck for months of labor not that anyone will ever listen to it, I'll prob just stick with that route to keep things all in one bin as it were.

Like you though..... Yes please, there shouldn't be this fuss over a piece of paper, ever.

Ya know, I'm waiting for some independent person or co to take over this copyright problem. I'll bet, if you have some worthy outfit with some common sense, we could take the gov't right out of the equation, & still be able to provide proof of ownership.

I see you guys seem to think that you shouldn't bother copyrighting your music until you actually have a deal lined up.
You need to know that the music Directors of most movies and TV shows won't talk to you unless you already have your material copyrighted and cleared for immediate publication.
.
Their reaction: "Oh? Your not ready?" Ok, thanks."
Then they'll simply contact one of the other million song writers who are serious enough to have their material all set to go.
If your material is not ready to be delivered with 24-36 hours after they ask for it, you will never hear from them again.
It must be able to prove your material has already been cleared.

I think if you're planning on using your music for professional reasons, then it would be best to go 50/50 with a publisher. That way, if you record with a company of some sort, and they decide to shelf your album for good, then they only own the Sound Recording. In this case you can just flip them the bird and re-record your album...and sue them if they ever dare to release it.

The cool thing about a publishing deal is the fact that both parties have to be in agreement before a song is used. Plus, a publisher wants to make money, so you could be getting paid for things like song plays on digital music channels, indie films...etc.

And if the publisher is not getting anywhere with your art, then you get all your songs back 100%. It's also nice to work with someone who doesen't tell you what/how you can write.

I was recently reading about this whole music business of today, and you actually make more money as an indie or unsigned artist than a lot of pop stars. Stay indie, and you have creative control...and money most of the time.

Krull again excellent info thank you.
Hmmm

I'm a small person with not that much really. Since that is the case I'm really confused about this whole thing to be honest? It almost seems as though you think you are a big guy because you want to safeguard your stuff and that you are GOING somewhere?

I don't think that way but I do think it important to do things the right way in all things if at all possible? I've never considered a publisher an though I write too when the mind comes I did read about that there too.

Are these things connected? I mean isn't it possible to combine everything in one bag and hopefully be done with it?
Many thanks again.

Chippy.

I think if you're planning on using your music for professional reasons, then it would be best to go 50/50 with a publisher. That way, if you record with a company of some sort, and they decide to shelf your album for good, then they only own the Sound Recording. In this case you can just flip them the bird and re-record your album...and sue them if they ever dare to release it.

The cool thing about a publishing deal is the fact that both parties have to be in agreement before a song is used. Plus, a publisher wants to make money, so you could be getting paid for things like song plays on digital music channels, indie films...etc.

And if the publisher is not getting anywhere with your art, then you get all your songs back 100%. It's also nice to work with someone who doesen't tell you what/how you can write.

I was recently reading about this whole music business of today, and you actually make more money as an indie or unsigned artist than a lot of pop stars. Stay indie, and you have creative control...and money most of the time.

First climb is even getting a Publisher to even take a chance on you. If you're not that known, they may want to pass on you because their time and effort could be wasted if they don't profit from it i.e. make $$$ and get outside interest.

A record company(major or indie) makes it seem easier for you, but in return, you end up owing them as they own you. It's really crooked.

I guess just like crossing the road its a chance on everything, even the system here of getting a piece of paper that states clearly they received your submission.

So be it life's too short in any case.
Thanks Krul

First climb is even getting a Publisher to even take a chance on you. If you're not that known, they may want to pass on you because their time and effort could be wasted if they don't profit from it i.e. make $$$ and get outside interest.
A record company(major or indie) makes it seem easier for you, but in return, you end up owing them as they own you. It's really crooked.