Background: A song is an artistic work created through the integration of melody, lyrics, and musical arrangement. In the digital era, the protection of song royalties has become increasingly important due to rapid technological developments that facilitate copyright infringement, particularly piracy, which undermines creators’ economic rights. Economic rights, including the right to receive royalties, are explicitly protected under Law Number 28 of 2014 on Copyright. Objective: This study examines the mechanism for distributing song royalties under the Copyright Law and evaluates the accountability and legal protection afforded in the distribution of royalties from the perspective of justice for songwriters. Methods: Using a normative legal research method with a statutory approach, this study analyzes relevant legal provisions governing copyright and royalties. Results: The findings show that royalty payments, as stipulated in Article 87 of Law Number 28 of 2014, are managed through Lembaga Manajemen Kolektif (LMK) to ensure the effective fulfillment of creators’ economic rights arising from the commercial use of copyrighted works. Royalties are mandatory when songs and/or music are used commercially in circumstances covered by the applicable copyright regulations. In Indonesia, the management of royalties for songs and/or music involves Lembaga Manajemen Kolektif Nasional (LMKN), which is authorized to collect, administer, and distribute royalties in accordance with the applicable legal framework. Conclusion: The study recommends enhancing public awareness of copyright and royalty obligations among both creators and users of music. It also suggests revising the Copyright Law, particularly regarding the determination of royalty rates, to provide greater legal certainty rather than relying solely on abstract standards of fairness and reasonableness.
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