What is derivative work?
If you take a preexisting song and use it to create a new composition that is called “derivative work”. The main difference with a cover is that it has significant modifications to the original lyrics and/or melody. An example would be recording someone else's riff yourself instead of sampling the recording of the riff.
What to consider when distributing with Amuse
Unlike a cover, you will always need the permission of the copyright holder of the pre-existing song to be able to distribute derivative work.
Some examples of derivative work in the musical field are:
Medleys
Mashups
Remixes
Parodies
Language translations (e.g. translating the lyrics of a preexisting song)
Musical arrangements that make any significant changes to the lyrics and/or original composition