IP basics
Short, plain-language notes on protecting your creative work.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by country and situation. Consult a qualified intellectual property attorney or professional before making decisions about your work.
What copyright covers
Copyright generally protects original creative works — songs, recordings, films, artwork, writing — once they're fixed in a tangible form. It protects your expression, not the underlying idea.
Keep records of your work
Save dated drafts, project files, and session stems. Clear records of when and how you created something can help if ownership is ever questioned.
Registration
Many countries offer official copyright registration. Rules and benefits vary by country — check with your national copyright office or a professional.
Read platform terms
When you upload to a platform or use a developer API, you agree to its terms, which may include licenses to your content. Read them before you publish.
Collaborations and samples
Agree on ownership and splits with collaborators in writing before release. Using samples or others' material usually requires permission.
You make the final call.