According to the Copyright Act of 1976, copyright protects original works of authorship, including musical compositions, from unauthorized copying, distribution, or public performance. This means that you cannot legally make or distribute copies of a copyrighted song without the permission of the copyright owner, which is typically the artist or their record label.
Even if you change the lyrics or music slightly, you may still need permission to use the original work. This is known as a derivative work, and it is also protected by copyright law.
If you want to legally cover a copyrighted song, you will need to obtain a mechanical license from the copyright owner. This license allows you to make and distribute copies of the song, but you will likely have to pay a licensing fee.
You may also need to obtain a synchronization license if you want to use the song in a video or other audiovisual work. This license allows you to synchronize the song with visual images, and you will likely have to pay a separate licensing fee for this.
It is important to note that copyright law can be complex, so you should consult with a qualified attorney if you have any questions about covering a copyrighted song.