How Does Remixing a Song Work?

In a traditional remix, the artist of the original track has another mixer or producer rearrange the audio layers however they would like. The result can range from a slightly different sounding track to something totally different. Layers can be added, removed, manipulated, turned up, turned down.

Is remixing a song legal?

Technically, the practice of remixing a song without permission is a copyright violation. However, artists can choose to cite fair use. This means that the remix is not derivative of the original work, but instead builds on it to create something new and original, Spin Academy explained.

What are the rules to remixing a song?

To remix a song legally, you'd need to contact and get permission from the song's writer(s), publisher(s) and the owner(s) of the sound recording. Then, if they choose to make it an official remix, you'd need to sign a license agreement that details how you'll split the royalties.