When it comes to music, there are two main types: original and cover songs.
There’s no doubt that cover songs have a special place in the modern music industry, as they help fans connect with their favorite songs in a new way.
Aspiring artists often cover popular songs to gain exposure and build their brand. However, creating original music sets artists apart and allows them to show off their unique style and creativity. It gives listeners a chance to connect with the artist on a deeper level while allowing the artist to make a name for themselves in the industry.
While covers can be fun and help an artist gain attention in the beginning stages of their career, original music is crucial for long-term success and artistic fulfillment.
This article will discuss the key differences between cover songs and original music to help you make an informed decision if you’re confused between creating original music and song covers.
5Key Differences between Original Music and Covers from Aspiring Artists
1) Legalities
There are certain legalities to consider when performing cover songs. In most cases, you’ll need to obtain proper licenses and permissions before performing a cover song publicly.
On the other hand, there are no such legal requirements for creating and performing your own music.
2) Creative Ownership and Credit
When you create an original song, you have complete creative ownership and receive all the credit for it.
On the other hand, you can only retain ownership and receive credit for your work if you have already secured the right to perform another artist’s song. Without the proper licenses, your cover song could be removed, and you risk losing your YouTube channel or whatever account you’re posting on.
3) Songwriting Process
The songwriting process is entirely different for original songs vs. covers.
With original music, you start from scratch and build the song from your own ideas, creativity, and inspiration. With a cover, you take someone else’s already-written song and put your spin on it.
4) Musical Expression
When performing an original song, you have the opportunity to truly express yourself through your own lyrics and musical choices.
In contrast, you convey someone else’s words and tunes with a cover song.
5) Fan Engagement
People who follow you for your unique personality and taste in music may be more engaged with your original tracks because they’ll be different and represent your true artistic expression.
Covers, on the other hand, tend to engage fans who may already be familiar with the song and enjoy hearing your interpretation of it.
Final Thoughts
While creating original music and covering someone else’s work both have their own challenges and benefits, it’s important to understand the key differences between original music and covers in order to properly credit and engage with your audience.
Original songs require more effort and time, but at the end of the day, they’re truly yours. Nevertheless, recording covers isn’t a bad idea for aspiring artists wanting to grab the audience’s attention and hone their craft. Just make sure you get the required licenses before taking this route.
Eric Dalius is The Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe, a music and content discovery platform designed to maximize artist discovery and optimize fan relationships. Eric is also known for his weekly podcast “FULLSPEED,” where he converses with influential entrepreneurs from a range of industries. Additionally, he supports education through the “Eric Dalius Foundation,” which grants four scholarships to US students. Stay connected with Eric on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn,YouTube, Instagram, and Entrepreneur.com.
