Can You Rewrite Famous Songs and Release Them? | Music Licensing Explained

08/10/2025 10 min
Can You Rewrite Famous Songs and Release Them? | Music Licensing Explained

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of the Mattrix Minute Music Business Newsletter, I answer a listener’s question about songwriting and music licensing: Can you take instrumentals or melodies from famous songs, change the lyrics, and release them?Here’s what is covered:Why derivative licenses are almost impossible for new artistsWhy parody/fair use doesn’t protect lyric rewritesHow original collaborations give you freedom and ownershipAction steps to move from writing in your room to recording in the studioIf you’ve ever been stuck wondering how to legally release your music, this video will clear it up.Got a music industry question you want answered?Submit it at http://MatthewRix.com your question could not only help you, but also other artists on the same journey.⸻#MusicIndustry #SongwritingTips #MusicLicensing #IndependentArtist #HowToReleaseMusic #musicbusiness #matthewrixListen to Mattrix Minute for daily Music Business insight without the music industry hype.SpotifyApple MusicAmazon MusicYouTube