Copyright Protection for Music: Key FAQs

A recent study reports that the Indian music industry sees little over 46 crore daily streams and is expected to generate INR 3,700 crore in revenue by 2026.[1] With such rapid growth, protecting intellectual property (IP) is more crucial than ever, not only to prevent the exploitation of artists but also to support business expansion in the music space.

So, what kinds of IP are involved in music? The possibilities are vast. Many assume only lyrics or songs qualify for protection, but the industry is much broader, and so is the range of IP.

Copyright law protects the creators of sound recordings, musical compositions, and performers. Trademark law covers brand elements like band names and music labels. If you’ve invented a new musical instrument, it may be eligible for a patent, and its unique design can also be protected. Even the technology behind that ukulele-tuning app can be a subject matter of protection.

In this FAQ, we focus on copyright, answering common questions and explaining how it applies to the music industry.