Distributing Cover Songs with Venice
Venice supports the distribution of legally licensed cover songs. However, we do not provide cover song licensing services. It is your responsibility to obtain the appropriate license before submitting any cover for release.
What Is a Cover Song?
A cover song is a new recording of a previously released song by another artist, where the melody, lyrics, and structure remain the same. If you’re performing someone else’s composition—even in your own style—it is considered a cover and requires a mechanical license.
What Is Not a Cover?
The following do not qualify as standard covers and may require additional clearance or will be rejected outright:
Remixes, mashups, or medleys
Translations into other languages
Songs with modified lyrics or melodies
Sound-alike versions that replicate the original master recording too closely
Any use of original stems, samples, or vocal takes
These are considered derivative works, which require direct approval from the original copyright holder—not just a mechanical license.
Licensing Requirement
You must obtain a valid mechanical license for each cover song before uploading it to Venice. Licensing can be acquired from reputable third-party providers such as:
Your license must cover the intended distribution format (downloads, streaming) and be valid for your release territory.
Note: We may also require cover song registration documentation at the time of submission or royalty processing, including details about the original work and license provider, to ensure the ownership of the cover sound recording version. Venice reserves the right to withhold / disable delivery or royalty processing if your cover song cannot be verified for compliance.
Platform Eligibility for Cover Songs
Platform Type | Mechanical License Covers Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Spotify | Yes | Audio-only content. Mechanical license required |
Apple Music | Yes | License must be secured before upload |
Amazon Music | Yes | Same as above |
Tidal | Yes | |
YouTube Music | Yes | |
TikTok, Instagram | No (mechanical license not enough) | Requires sync or direct platform licensing |
YouTube Content ID / Shorts | No (mechanical license not enough) | May be removed or demonetized |
Verification & Enforcement
Venice may request proof of licensing at any time. Failure to provide verifiable documentation will result in:
Immediate takedown of the infringing release
Penalties to your account, including suspension or termination
Possible reporting to rights holders or enforcement bodies
Venice reserves the right to reject or remove cover songs that sound nearly identical to the original master recording, even if licensed—particularly if they could mislead platforms or listeners into believing it’s the original.
Summary Checklist Before You Submit:
✔ You recorded a new, original performance
✔ The song was previously released and published
✔ You did not use any original master stems or samples
✔ You obtained a mechanical license from a trusted provider
✔ You’re prepared to provide proof of license upon request
If you are unsure whether your release qualifies as a cover or needs additional licensing, please reach out to Venice Support before submitting. We’re here to help ensure your release stays compliant, protected, and live on all platforms.