Can You Rewrite Famous Songs and Release Them? | Music Licensing Explained
Update: 2025-10-08
Description
In this episode of the Mattrix Minute Music Business Newsletter, I answer a listener’s question about songwriting and music licensing: Can you take instrumentals or melodies from famous songs, change the lyrics, and release them?
Here’s what is covered:
Why derivative licenses are almost impossible for new artists
Why parody/fair use doesn’t protect lyric rewrites
How original collaborations give you freedom and ownership
Action steps to move from writing in your room to recording in the studio
If you’ve ever been stuck wondering how to legally release your music, this video will clear it up.
Got a music industry question you want answered?
Submit it at http://MatthewRix.com your question could not only help you, but also other artists on the same journey.
⸻
#MusicIndustry #SongwritingTips #MusicLicensing #IndependentArtist #HowToReleaseMusic #musicbusiness #matthewrix
Listen to Mattrix Minute for daily Music Business insight with the hype.
Spotify
Apple Music
Amazon Music
YouTube
Here’s what is covered:
Why derivative licenses are almost impossible for new artists
Why parody/fair use doesn’t protect lyric rewrites
How original collaborations give you freedom and ownership
Action steps to move from writing in your room to recording in the studio
If you’ve ever been stuck wondering how to legally release your music, this video will clear it up.
Got a music industry question you want answered?
Submit it at http://MatthewRix.com your question could not only help you, but also other artists on the same journey.
⸻
#MusicIndustry #SongwritingTips #MusicLicensing #IndependentArtist #HowToReleaseMusic #musicbusiness #matthewrix
Listen to Mattrix Minute for daily Music Business insight with the hype.
Spotify
Apple Music
Amazon Music
YouTube
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