How Do You Get Permission to Cover a Song

If you’re an indie songwriter aiming to license your music to TV and film, you’ve likely wondered: “Do I need permission to cover a song?” The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it—especially when it comes to sync licensing.

When you record a cover song, you’re creating what’s called a derivative work. This means you need proper permissions to use someone else’s original composition. Specifically, you’ll need a mechanical license, which allows you to record and distribute your cover legally.
But here’s the key difference when it comes to licensing your cover for TV or film: you’ll also need what’s known as a synchronization license. Unlike a mechanical license, a sync license must be obtained directly from the song’s publisher (or copyright holder). There’s no compulsory rate, so the rights holder sets the fee and terms, and they can even refuse permission.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Obtain a Mechanical License: Services like Easy Song Licensing or Harry Fox Agency make securing a mechanical license straightforward, often for a small fee per digital download or stream. Mechanical licenses ensure you can legally sell and distribute your cover song on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or your own website.
   
   
2. Get a Sync License: You’ll need to contact the music publisher or rights holder directly. This is often a more involved process and can vary significantly in cost and complexity, depending on the popularity and rights situation of the original song. Sync licenses are critical for placement in visual media like movies, TV shows, commercials, and even video games.
   
   
3. Understand the Costs: Costs for sync licenses can vary widely, from relatively inexpensive for lesser-known tracks to very costly for popular hits. Factors like the song’s fame, how it’s being used, and the reach of the media project all influence the final price. Budget accordingly, and be prepared to negotiate or explore alternatives if your first choice proves too costly or complicated.
   
   
4. Consider Originality and Creativity: Often, music supervisors prefer covers that bring a fresh, unique twist to familiar songs. If your version significantly enhances or transforms the original—perhaps by changing its genre, tempo, or instrumentation—it can stand out, making obtaining permissions worthwhile. Music supervisors value unique interpretations that offer emotional depth, thematic resonance, or unexpected appeal.
   
   
5. Plan Ahead and Allow Time: Licensing processes can take time, especially for high-profile songs. Begin this process early to ensure you have permission before you need the song. Delays or denials can disrupt your project’s timelines, so proactive planning is essential.
   
   
6. Explore Alternative Options: If obtaining the necessary permissions for your first-choice cover song proves too challenging or expensive, consider lesser-known compositions or public domain music. Public domain songs are free to use without licenses, and your creative take on these classics can still appeal strongly to music supervisors looking for something distinctive.
   
   

In summary, yes, you’ll need permission—both mechanical and sync licenses—to cover and license a song for TV or film. Understanding these distinctions and being prepared with the right licenses will make your music more appealing to music supervisors and clear the way for successful licensing opportunities. Taking these steps positions you as a professional, organized, and reliable songwriter—qualities that make music supervisors want to work with you repeatedly.

Check out our other blogs about cover songs here:
“9 Tips on How to License a Cover Song Legally“
“How We Placed this Song for Five-Figures“