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Copyrighting and Trademarking Your Work

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INTERVIEW ON THE PRICE OF BUSINESS SHOW, MEDIA PARTNER OF THIS SITE.

Recently Kevin Price, Host of the nationally syndicated Price of Business Show, welcomed Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes to provide another commentary in a series.

The Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes Commentaries

Protecting your creative work is like locking the front door of your house—you wouldn’t want anyone walking in and claiming your couch. In this episode, we explore the ins and outs of copyrighting and trademarking your masterpieces, ensuring your ideas stay yours.

Ever created something amazing only to worry someone might swipe it? Copyright and trademark laws are your creative bodyguards. Here’s how to put them to work for you.

 

Copyright 101

Copyright protects original works of authorship, like music, art, writing, and videos. The moment you create something, you have automatic copyright protection. However, registering it with the U.S. Copyright Office solidifies your claim and allows you to sue someone who steals it. It’s like the difference between saying, “That’s mine!” and slapping a deed on it.

Cost: $65 for a basic registration.

Time: About 3-5 months for approval.

Steps:

  1. Visit copyright.gov.
  2. Fill out the online form.
  3. Pay the fee and upload your work. Trademarking Your Brand

While copyright protects creations, trademarks guard names, logos, and slogans. If your band is called “Banjo Ninjas” or you’ve got a killer logo, a trademark ensures nobody else can use it in your industry.

Cost: $250–$350 per class of goods or services. Time: 6-12 months for approval.

Steps:

  1. Search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to ensure your name or logo isn’t already taken.
  2. File your application at uspto.gov.
  3. Work with an attorney if your case is complex (optional but helpful).

Why It Matters

Imagine this: You write a hit song, and someone uploads it to Spotify under their name. Without a registered copyright, your options are limited. Or worse, your band’s unique name gets hijacked by a competitor selling rubber chickens. A trademark ensures your brand stays yours.

 

Common Pitfalls

  • Forgetting to renew trademarks (yes, they can expire).
  • Assuming you’re protected internationally. You’ll need to file in each country where protection is needed.
  • Not acting quickly—ideas are like hotcakes; people will snatch them if you’re not vigilant.

Practical Advice

  • If you’re broke (who isn’t?), start with copyrighting your most valuable works first.
  • Use free tools like Creative Commons for some protections, though they’re not as robust as registration.
  • Consider bundling registrations if you’re launching a project with multiple works (e.g., an album, logo, and website).

Final Thoughts

Copyright and trademarks may seem daunting, but they’re vital tools for creative entrepreneurs. Think of them as shields protecting your kingdom of ideas. Plus, you get to use the “©” and “®” symbols, which automatically make you look 37% more official.

About The Coaches Corner

The Coaches Corner is a practical and entertaining guide for artistpreneurs, hosted by Benjamin Barnes, aka Bencasso. An awardwinning musician, artist, and educator, Benjamin has transformed his creative passions into a thriving career. Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned creator, his advice equips you to turn your ideas into income.

 

Benjamin Barnes, also known as Bencasso, is a violinist, painter, and entrepreneur who blends art, music, and education. A former rock star with Deadweight, he’s recorded over 1,290 songs and worked with legends like Isaac Stern. As CEO of Culture Scholar Corporation, he uses music and art to uplift underserved communities, including seniors and those recovering from addiction. His LLC, Bencasso, empowers artists through innovative programs. Despite overcoming catastrophic injuries and mental health struggles, Benjamin has earned prestigious grants, written a Pulitzer Prize-winning autobiography, and continues to inspire others through his creative journey. 

 

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