Self-Check Test: Is Your Music Well Protected and Monetized?

23 Apr Self-Check Test: Is Your Music Well Protected and Monetized?

Use this checklist to quickly assess whether your musical creations are properly secured and set up to earn you maximum income. For each item, answer YES or NO.

1. Copyright Registration & Documentation

• Have you registered your songs, lyrics, and recordings with any Copyright Registry?
• Do you keep dated records (demos, lyric sheets, session files) proving you are the original creator?
• Have you checked your music for potential plagiarism using online tools or services?

2. Collective Management & Royalties

• Are your works registered with a collective management organization to collect royalties?
• Do you regularly review your royalty statements for accuracy?

3. Digital & International Protection

• Is your music distributed on major digital platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube) via a reputable aggregator?
• Have you registered with international royalty collection agencies (e.g., SoundExchange, Songtrust) for overseas digital royalties?
• Do you use YouTube’s Content ID or upload your music privately to check for copyright claims and unauthorized use?

4. Contracts & Licensing

• Do you use written contracts for all collaborations, performances, and licensing deals?
• Are your publishing rights clearly defined—either self-published or with a trusted publisher?
• Have you licensed your music for synchronization (film, TV, ads) and ensured contracts cover both composition and master rights?

5. Monetization Strategies

• Are you actively seeking sync opportunities, brand partnerships, and merchandising deals?
• Do you have a plan for live performance income, including proper agreements with venues and promoters?
• Are you exploring multiple revenue streams (royalties, live shows, merch, licensing)?

6. Ongoing Monitoring & Enforcement

• Do you monitor digital platforms and streaming services for unauthorized use of your music?
• Are you prepared to enforce your rights, if infringement occurs?
• Do you regularly audit your IP portfolio and update registrations as you release new works?

7. Investor & Funding Readiness

• Is your IP portfolio organized and up-to-date to show potential investors or funding partners?
• Can you demonstrate clear ownership and monetization of your music IP to attract business opportunities?

How Did You Score?

• Mostly YES: Your music IP is well protected and primed for monetization. Keep up the good work and stay vigilant!
• Some NOs: Identify gaps and take action—register your works, join CMOs, use digital tools, and always use contracts.
• Many NOs: Your music and earnings are at risk. Start securing your IP immediately to unlock your full earning potential!

Pro Tip:
Regularly revisit this checklist as your career grows. Protecting and monetizing your music IP is an ongoing process—don’t leave money or your rights on the table!