Guide
Can I sell my share of a co-written song?
By the Sell Your Song team · Last updated:
Yes, you can usually sell your own share of a co-written song without selling anyone else's. Your co-writers keep their shares and keep receiving their royalties exactly as before.
Selling your share of a song
Each writer owns their own split of the song — for example 50/50, or a third each. When you sell, you sell your split (or part of it). The other writers don't need to sell, and their income isn't affected.
What if my co-writer wants to sell?
The same applies the other way: a co-writer can sell their share while you keep yours. Nothing about your split royalties changes.
Why split sheets and registrations matter
A buyer needs to know exactly what share you own. A split sheet, or the splits shown on your royalty statements, proves it. If the splits on paper don't match what you agreed, it can slow a sale down, so it helps to have them clear.
What we need to see
- Your royalty statements for the song.
- Your split sheet or any agreement with your co-writers, if you have one.
- Any contract you've signed about the song.
More in can I sell my song? and what happens when you sell.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell my share of a song without my co-writer?
Usually yes. You can sell your own share; your co-writer keeps theirs.
Does my co-writer need to agree?
Normally not for selling your own share, though any agreement between you should be checked first.
What is a split sheet?
A simple written record of who wrote a song and what share each writer owns.
I don't have a split sheet. Can I still sell?
Often yes, if your statements show your share. We'll tell you what else might help.
Will my co-writer's royalties change?
No. Only the share you sell changes hands.
Sell Your Song is a trading name of Royalties Inc Ltd. This is general information, not financial or legal advice.