Copyright 101 for Independent Artists
When you record in a studio, you're creating two distinct works: the underlying song and the sound recording. Understanding the difference is key to protecting your revenue.
Covers 2 studios: Beach House Studios, Secret Sisters Studios.
Guide insights
The 'PA' (Performing Arts) copyright covers the composition—the melody, lyrics, and arrangement. This is what songwriters and publishers care about. The 'SR' (Sound Recording) copyright covers the specific master file you create in the studio. In many indie sessions, the artist owns both, but if you have outside collaborators or session players, clear agreements are vital.
Most studio session players work as 'work-for-hire,' meaning they don't own a piece of the recording in exchange for their daily rate. However, you should always have a simple signed paper confirming this to avoid disputes if your song becomes a hit later.
LA studios often have legal referrals or templates they can share, but it’s your responsibility to register your finished masters with the U.S. Copyright Office. Doing this early provides the strongest legal protection for your work.
Remember: owning the 'master' doesn't automatically mean you own the 'publishing.' Keep these concepts separate in your mind and your contracts to ensure you're getting paid from every available royalty stream.
Beach House Studios
Long Beach, CA
Verified Feb 6, 2026Rates: $75 per hour (2 hour minimum)
A relaxed Long Beach studio with clear hourly pricing and a straightforward booking flow. Best for artists looking for efficient tracking or mixing sessions with the core essentials ready to go.
Secret Sisters Studios
North Glendale, Los Angeles, CA
Verified Feb 6, 2026Rates: $50 to $85 per hour
A North Glendale studio with an analog-leaning vibe and intimate rooms for vocal tracking. A solid pick for artists who want character and a more hands-on studio experience.
FAQ
What is a 'Work-for-Hire' agreement?
It's a contract stating that a session player's contributions belong to the artist in exchange for payment, with no future royalty claims.
Do I need to copywrite every demo I record?
You are technically protected the moment you record, but formal registration is required if you ever need to sue for infringement.