Music Copyright Laws

ATTENTION All Cheer Coaches and Administrators:

USA Cheer has an educational initiative to provide music producers, coaches, professional members, athletes, and spirit leaders with the information needed to help all groups understand U.S. copyright laws regarding music usage as part of performances, routines, competitions, school events, camps, etc. These laws were designed to protect artists, promote creativity, and ensure that artists are compensated for their creations. This initiative was developed out of respect for all artists and to protect our members and all those involved in routines, competitions and performances of any kind in which music is used. In addition, USA Cheer is providing a directory of music providers who have signed an agreement to follow copyright law.
ICCA Coaches — you can find a Music FAQ and the appropriate Music Providers at: https://usacheer.org/music.

Game Time Spirit:

What about copyright for our School Fight Song?

  1. Have your high school band record it.  THEN, have your band instructor write a letter on SCHOOL LETTERHEAD, giving your squad permission to perform their recording.

  2. Buy your school song on a single track from iTunes.  Remember it needs to be purchased under your school name with a school credit card.

Most School Fight Songs are old enough that they fall under Public Domain, meaning they’re more than 75 years old.  In that case, you won’t need further paperwork.

    • On Wisconsin

    • Notre Dame Victory March