I would recommend in anything you record somewhat professionally to copyright it and register whomever is the writer and publisher. Those are the first two steps and both are equally as easy anymore. Neil is write, as you can follow that link and register the copyright with the Library of Congress.

There are three PRO's (Performance Rights Organizations) that exist in North America. Those are ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC. ASCAP and BMI handle nearly all the published and written music in North America. SESAC is quite large as well but is only exclusive to those whom already have a strong amount of royalties coming in and unless you are Carol King, it might be tough to get with them. Believe me, I have tried with no success.

ASCAP charges a small fee for both writing and publishing memberships. I am an ASCAP member, and once you register all your works with them; they than collect all of your royalties (money you earn from your music) once it is published and used. I would strongly recommend joining even if you aren't at that stage yet as it looks alot more appealing to people looking for YOUR music if you already handled this step yourself. You can visit the following link to ASCAP and set this up yourself. Very easy.

http://www.ascap.com/about/howjoin.asp

Please let me know if you have any more questions or need any help with this. I am a professional songwriter as well and am willing to help in any way I can. Take care.