Creating, recording and releasing music is not easy. Musicians face many challenges, and some can be experienced after a song is out. Despite getting a copyright for your music, someone may claim you stole it.
You probably have seen guides on what to do when someone steals your music. But what if you are on the other side of the claim?
Here is what you can do when someone alleges you stole their music.
Assemble your evidence
Anything that can prove you own the song can serve as evidence. If you wrote it, gather your notes from when you were developing the idea. If you worked with a songwriter, they should provide you with their notes. You will also need your properly registered copyright of the music. You need to prove you or the songwriter independently created the song.
Get legal help
When someone accuses you of stealing their song, you may potentially face costly damages. In addition to legal-related costs, your reputation in the industry can be affected. Thus, it can help to get legal help sooner to defend yourself and your career.
Why would someone accuse you of this offense?
A stranger may accuse you of this offense. However, in most cases, it may be the people you worked with. For example, when you leave a band and release a song you independently created but may have made your bandmates aware of it. They may have thought it was the band’s song, but before you released it with them, you legally left. One or all of them can claim you stole the song.
If someone claims you stole their song, you could get legal guidance to protect your creativity and reputation.