Proof of Prior Creation for Music: How to Establish Authorship (and Avoid Plagiarism)
Have you composed a piece, written lyrics, produced a track, or finalised a mix? The question is not just “is it protected?” (yes, automatically), but more importantly: how to prove it if someone claims your creation.
In 2 minutes: create a dated proof of your music.
1) What is proof of precedence in music?
A proof of anteriority serves to demonstrate that on a specific date, you already possessed a musical work (audio, score, lyrics, arrangement, production session). In case of conflict (plagiarism, counterfeiting, authorship dispute), the aim is to be able to provide a date + a content + a credible link between you and the work.
✅ Objective: to be able to say “I had this creation on such a date”, with supporting evidence, and show consistency between your files (demos, versions, stems, exports).
2) Copyright: your music is already protected… but you must be able to prove it
In France, the copyright arises automatically as soon as an original work is created, with no mandatory registration. The real problem comes when you need to prove prove the creation date and your status as an author.
For further information: consult the official portal on intellectual property (INPI) and reference texts via Légifrance.
3) Methods to Prove Precedence: Advantages & Limitations
There isn't a universal “magic method”: it all depends on your budget, urgency, and the level of robustness required. Here’s a clear (and realistic) comparison.
| Method | Who is it for? | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online deposit (timestamping + traceability) | Independent artists, beatmakers, labels | Very fast, centralises your files, simple to repeat with each version | The strength depends on traceability and preservation of elements |
| Soleau Envelope / e-Soleau (INPI) | Creators seeking an institutional solution | ↗ INPI (Soleau) | Less practical for versions/stems, dedicated process |
| Bailiff / notary | High-stakes cases | Very robust | Costly, cumbersome, not ideal for daily use |
| Emailing to oneself / 'poor man's copyright' | To avoid as 'sole proof' | Simple | Questionable, unstructured, low traceability |
| Deposit via authors’ society (e.g.: SACEM) | According to your strategy | Management/collection framework | Doesn't always meet the need for 'instantaneous' proof before sending/distribution |
For further reading on the subject: Music plagiarism: how to protect your music and Music copyright: protection.
4) TuneLockr: a simple proof of priority, designed for music
TuneLockr allows you to deposit your creations (tracks, versions, exports, stems) to form a dated proof useful in case of dispute, while keeping a proper organisation of your releases.
What you get
- Timestamp from the deposit
- Traceability of your files and versions
- A clear space to store and retrieve your deposits
- A quick deposit before: sending to a label, collab, upload, release
When to deposit? (critical moments)
- Before sending a demo to a label/publisher/manager
- Before a collaboration (shared sessions, co-production)
- Before publishing on YouTube/Spotify/SoundCloud
- Before distributing to playlists/media
Helpful guide: Anti-plagiarism: audio file & proof of priority and How to Protect Music: Quick Solution.
5) How to create solid proof of priority (checklist)
For proof to be useful, it must be dated, consistent and reproducible. Here's a simple method:
- Submit as soon as the first usable version (demo, bounce, rough mix).
- Add the key elements : final audio, stems, project (if possible), lyrics, scores, cover.
- Rename clearly “Title – V1 – date”, “V2 – mix”, “Final master”.
- Submit again at each stage important (new arrangement, new topline, new mix/master).
- Keep a history : the timeline is your best ally.
Immediate action
Drop your music now, then continue your promo with peace of mind.
Deposit now (1 free deposit, no card required)6) Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Waiting for the official release : the risk is often before (sends, collabs, sharing).
- Only depositing a compressed MP3 : if possible, also add WAV/stems/versions.
- No versioning : without a timeline, your file is harder to defend.
- Confusing broadcasting and proof : publishing does not always robustly prove precedence.
Additional resources: Registering music copyright · FAQ TuneLockr · Terms & Conditions.
FAQ — Proof of musical precedence
Is SACEM mandatory to prove precedence?
No. Copyright exists without formality. The question is proof: you can use complementary methods. If you're comparing options: Alternative to SACEM: 3 solutions.
Can I deposit an audio file as proof?
Yes, and it's often the basis: audio + versions + creation elements. See: Audio file & proof of precedence.
What should I do if I think I’m a victim of plagiarism?
Document everything (files, dates, exchanges), and gather your proof of precedence. Guide: Musical plagiarism: protect your music.
I want to deposit without a credit card: is it possible?
Yes: start directly on the app with 1 free deposit without card. Access the application.
Note: this page is informative and does not replace legal advice. For a sensitive case, consult a professional.
Deposit your music now
Protect your tracks before broadcasting, collab, or sending: simple, quick, organised deposit.
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Useful links (official)