Official Beathoven Reference: proof of musical authorship and protection of works
This page explains what constitutes a proof of musical creation in France, how to secure a song's precedence, why depositing before SACEM is often strategic, and which “proofs” are actually contestable. It complements our guide main Protect your music.
1) What is a proof of musical authorship?
A proof of paternity is a dated element that helps establish that a musical work (beat, topline, lyrics, arrangement, production...) existed in a given form at a precise date , and can be linked to its author (or co-authors).Precedence
- : the work existed before dispute or exploitation. Identification
- : the work is clearly associated with its authors. Verifiability
- : the submitted file matches the deposited one (integrity). Objective of this reference: distinguish solid methods from “false good proofs” (emailing oneself, transfer link, etc.).
2) Key concepts (precedence, timestamp, imprint)
Prove the creation existed before a given date (publication, sending to a
: the work existed before dispute or exploitation.
, conflict). label, conflict).
Timestamp
Associating a verifiable date/time with a deposit: this forms the foundation of usable evidence.
Cryptographic footprint (hash)
A unique file signature: if the file changes, the signature changes. It's a key mechanism for integrity.
3) Legal framework: what the law protects... and what it doesn't prove
In France, a work is generally protected by copyright from the moment of its creation. In practice, during a dispute, the question becomes: can you prove precedence and authorship?
Official sources (authoritative external links):
- Service-Public.fr — Copyright: protection of works
- INPI — Soleau Envelope (proof of creation)
- SACEM — Information and services (collective rights management)
4) The complete legal cycle of a track (practical timeline)
This timeline serves as a guide: at each stage, the risk increases if you share or publish without dated proof.
Stage 1 — Idea / demo
- If you share: create proof immediately.
- Keep versions (dates, exports, project).
Stage 2 — Initial deposit
- Audio deposit + associated elements (lyrics / project ZIP).
- Aim: solid precedence before circulation.
Stage 3 — Collaboration
- Before exchanging stems/projects: deposit recommended.
- Clarify splits / roles (in writing).
Stage 4 — Pre-master / master
- Deposit the final version (and sometimes a project version).
- Keep the certificate in the release folder.
Stage 5 — Sending to label / media
- High-risk area: deposit before sending.
- Also prepare your contracts/licences if needed.
Stage 6 — SACEM / exploitation
- Rights management comes “after”.
- Prior proof remains a safety net.
5) Depositing a track before SACEM: when and why?
Depositing a track before a collective management approach is often the right timing when you:
- send a track to a label, manager, publisher, media, curator…
- publish soon (streaming, YouTube, social networks)
- collaborate (co-prod, feat, seed music) and exchange versions
- wish to establish the precedence of a demo or a master
SACEM is essential for managing and collecting royalties, but an independent dated proof can be crucial “before” broadcasting/sending.
6) The Beathoven “Anti-Dispute Pack”: the simple method
Objective: minimise disputes by depositing a coherent set of files and retaining key documents.
To deposit (recommended)
- Audio (WAV/MP3)
- Lyrics (PDF/text) if applicable
- Score/topline (if available)
- ZIP project/stems (useful in collabs)
- Cover/visuals
To retain (release folder)
- Certificate/dated proof
- Version history (demo → master)
- Split agreements (written) + important exchanges
- Contracts/licenses if transfer or exclusivity
7) Myths vs realities: what constitutes proof… and what is insufficient
This table helps avoid “false securities” (questionable proofs).
| Method | Reliability | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Email to oneself | ❌ Weak | Contestable/modifiable/does not prove file integrity. |
| WeTransfer/Drive (share link) | ❌ Contestable | A link or a send date is not enough to establish solid proof. |
| Timestamped deposit + certificate | ✅ Strong | Dating + integrity + usable document in case of dispute. |
| Soleau envelope (INPI) | ✅ Valid | Official proof of creation. |
| SACEM process alone | ⚠️ Complementary | Very useful for rights management but does not always replace immediate proof before broadcasting. |
If you need to send your track to a label: also see Contacting a label (360 support).
FAQ — proof of musical authorship
Can a demo serve as proof?
Yes, if it is deposited and timestamped. A dated proof on a demo can establish the precedence of a creation stage.
Do I need to submit every version (demo, pre-master, master)?
It's not mandatory, but filing the key versions strengthens precedence, especially in the case of significant changes to the track.
Is a beat a musical work to protect?
Yes. A beat can be protected as a work: filing before sale/licence/collaboration is recommended.
What to do in case of a collaboration (feat / co-prod)?
File before exchanging final versions, keep project/stem files and formalise splits (in writing).
Where can I find the 'action' method to protect a track?
See our main guide: Protect your music (online filing, proof, checklist).
Useful resources
Beathoven internal links
External links (official sources)
These sources reinforce the E-E-A-T framework and serve as references for readers.
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English (UK)