Guide
Can I sell my song?
By the Sell Your Song team · Last updated:
Yes, you can sell your song — or, more precisely, your share of its future royalties — for a cash payment. If you own a share of a song you wrote or a recording you released, you can usually sell that share, and you're never obliged to accept an offer.
Who can sell my music royalties?
Only the person (or company) who owns a share can sell it. That might be you as the songwriter, you as the owner of the recording (common if you released it yourself through a distributor), or both. If you co-wrote the song, you can sell your own share without selling anyone else's.
The song and the recording: what's the difference?
The song is the words and music — what you'd write down or play on a guitar. The recording is one particular recorded version of it, the file on Spotify. They earn separate royalties and can have different owners. If you wrote and self-released a track, you may own both. When you sell, the contract says exactly which one you're selling, and how much of it.
Can I sell a song I wrote?
Yes, as long as you haven't already signed away your share — for example to a publisher on a deal that transferred ownership. If you're not sure, we'll go through your paperwork with you.
What you need
- Your royalty statements, ideally covering the last two or three years. They show what the song actually earns.
- The song's title and a Spotify link, so we can identify it.
- Any contract you've signed about the song, if there is one.
No obligation
Getting a valuation or an offer doesn't commit you to anything. You can take time to think, talk to someone you trust, or say no. Read how to check any buyer and what your song might be worth before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a song I wrote but didn't record?
Yes. You can sell your songwriter's share even if someone else owns the recording.
Can I sell only part of my song?
Yes. You can sell a percentage of your share and keep the rest.
Do I need a lawyer to sell my song?
You don't have to, but you're always welcome to have one read the contract before you sign.
Can I sell my song if I have a co-writer?
Yes, you can sell your own share. Your co-writer's share isn't affected.
What documents do I need to sell my song?
Your royalty statements, the song title and a Spotify link, plus any contract you've signed about it.
Will people know I sold my song?
You're still credited as the writer. The sale changes who receives the royalties, not who wrote it.
Sell Your Song is a trading name of Royalties Inc Ltd. This is general information, not financial or legal advice.