We're often asked whether to list one's real name or stage name when registering songs.

And while we can't give you legal advice (and you're always free to register how ever you'd like), we do recommend using your real (legal) name on the forms – for one good reason: It's much easier for you to prove your identify in court should a dispute ever arise!


Remember, documenting your work has nothing to do with how you present yourself to your audience. What's important for claiming ownership of your songs is making sure that YOU – AND YOU ALONE – are associated with your material.

And we think one's real name is the safest way to do that.   What you call yourself in front of audiences is an entirely different matter.

But, again, it's up to you!  If you feel you must use your stage name (or add it as an "aka" after your real name), go ahead! Just be sure you have some way to prove – as easily as possible – that YOU, and no one else, are in fact the stage name you claim to be.

To avoid unnecessary issues, we highly suggest using your real name on the registration forms and your stage name for album covers and on stage!


For more tips on songwriting, go to our Blog or Facebook page (linked at the bottom of our pages).