What type of intellectual property protection should a songwriter pursue to safeguard his new song?

A songwriter should pursue copyright protection to safeguard a new song because copyright specifically covers original works of authorship, including music and lyrics. This form of intellectual property protection ensures that the songwriter has exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and publicly perform the song. By obtaining copyright, the songwriter can prevent others from using their work without permission, thereby protecting their creative expression and potential financial interests.

In contrast, patent protection is geared towards inventions and functional designs rather than artistic works, making it unsuitable for songs. Trademark protection pertains to brand identification, such as logos or slogans, and does not apply to the artistic content of music. Trade secrets involve confidential business information that provides a competitive advantage, which is not applicable to songs that are typically publicly shared and disclosed. Therefore, copyright is the most effective means for a songwriter to protect their musical creations.