How to protect a song: 1 quick and legal solution
You've composed a track, written lyrics, or produced an instrumental and you're wondering how to protect a song ? Good news: today there is a unique solution, simple and legally recognised, which provides proof of anteriority unforgeable protection in a few minutes.
⏱️ Instant deposit • Blockchain certificate (Tezos) • eIDAS standard • 1st deposit free
Why protect a song?
Copyright arises automatically from creation. However, in case of dispute, you must prove the precedence of your work: without reliable proof, defending your rights becomes complicated. Protecting your music means:
Your benefits
- Establishing your ownership (lyrics, score, audio).
- Reducing the risk of plagiarism and appropriation.
- Negotiating more confidently with labels/publishers.
- Enhancing your music catalogue.
Legal expectations
- Certain date (timestamp reliable).
- Evidence verifiable and sustainable.
- Strong file ↔ proof link (fingerprint/hash).
The quick and legal solution: blockchain certificate
Thanks to blockchain, you can protect a piece of music in a few minutes. With TuneLockr, you obtain an unforgeable certificate of precedence, timestamped and legally recognised (standard eIDAS), valid in more than 170 countries (under the Berne Convention).
What you can register
- Lyrics (text)
- Scores / lead sheets
- Audio: demo, beat, stems, final mix
- DAW projects (as a complement)
Key advantages
- Quick: certificate in < 5 min
- Legal: eIDAS, Berne
- Reliable: unforgeable fingerprint/hash
- Accessible: 1st deposit free
1-step tutorial
- Go to TuneLockr – How it works, create a free account, upload your lyrics, sheet music or audio, and retrieve your Blockchain certificate (Tezos timestamp).
Comparison of methods to protect music
| Method | Advantages | Limitations | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SACEM | Rights management, broad recognition | Fees, delays, not pure evidence of priority | Days → weeks | Paid |
| Notary / Bailiff | Strong legal value | High cost, procedures | 1–7 days | High |
| Blockchain certificate (TuneLockr) | Fast, eIDAS, tamper-proof, verifiable | Third-party service required | In just a few minutes | First deposit free |
| Registered letter to oneself | Low cost | Fragile and contestable evidence | 2–3 days | Low |
Best practices
Check-list
- Protect before any broadcast (YouTube, Spotify, SoundCloud).
- Register each significant version (lyrics, sheet music, audio).
- Archive DAW projects and dated exports.
- Use split sheets for co-authors.
- Reference the hash in your contracts/licenses.
Platforms & identification
- YouTube: Content ID – protect your music on YouTube
- Distribution: ISRC, metadata, fingerprint encoding
Useful resources
FAQ – How to protect music
How to protect music for free?
With TuneLockr, your first deposit is free. You receive a timestamped and verifiable certificate.
Is the solution legally recognised?
Yes. The certificate complies with eIDAS standards and falls within the Berne Convention framework, allowing for international recognition.
Can I protect only lyrics?
Yes. You can protect text, sheet music, and audio files, individually or together.
How long does it take?
Less than 5 minutes: registration, upload, immediate certificate.
Is SACEM compulsory?
No. SACEM handles the collection and distribution of rights. For proof of priority, a blockchain certificate, bailiff or notary may suffice.
Do I need to resubmit each version?
Recommended when changes are significant (new lyrics, arrangement, mix) to maintain a convincing timeline.
Registered letter to oneself: is it useful?
Fragile and often contested method. Prefer a blockchain certificate or an official document.
What to do in case of a copy?
Gather your evidence (certificates, projects, communications), have it certified (bailiff), contact the platform, then consult legal advice.