What is a remix?
A remix is when a creator such as a , or reworks a pre-existing , modifying, adding or rearranging existing musical or vocal elements to create a new sound recording. Under , remixes are considered , which are . Read our page on Derivative Works to learn more.
Remixes can be a great way to make old popular again, but there are rules that need to be followed.
What rights are involved in creating a remix?
To create a remix, you must have permission from the of both the pre-existing musical work and sound recording. This derives from their rights of adaptation and .
See our topic on Music Creators' Rights to learn more.
Who owns the rights in a remix?
A remix can be considered a derivative work, so if you created a remix, you own the to any new and original elements you contributed to it. But the owners of the pre-existing work and sound recording retain their rights to any elements of those used in the remix. Therefore, you and the rights holders of the pre-existing musical work and sound recording will each own a share of the remix.
When a remix is used, for example, streamed, downloaded, performed, or played in a public place, both you and any other creators and rights holders of the remix and the rights holders of the original musical work and sound recording will earn and share any income.
Remixes should be registered with as a new musical work and sound recording and assigned an and an . The original rights holders of the original musical work and sound recording should also be .
Find out more about DJs and Remixers, and what they do, in the Songwriting topic.
Remixes can also sometimes be created under a arrangement, for example, with a record label. In such cases, the rights in the remix will belong to the employer rather than the creator.
Visit our topic, Rights Transfers and Licensing, to learn more about work for hire.
Image credit: Michael Korsgren, Parapix