Leana Mask and Globex Music Release Soulful ‘Swim’
The online music industry is experiencing a remarkable joint effort as Globex Music, a key distributor in global music distribution, teams up with rising artist Leana Mask.
Together, they have released a fresh take of BTS (방탄소년단)‘s global hit, “Swim.” This release comes at a peak moment of BTS-mania, following the massive success of their latest album, Arirang.
Before diving into the cover, it is essential to understand the weight of the original track. BTS opted for “Swim” as the title track for their fifth studio album, Arirang, although there were other contenders.
Famous for their powerful stage presence, the group had reservations about selecting a softer, deeper track. However, “Swim” won due to its emotional depth, symbolizing the group’s perseverance and evolution after their military service.
The album broke multiple records upon its March 20 release, with “Swim” accumulating massive plays within hours and trending on streaming services globally.
Reinterpreting such a legendary song requires not just singing ability, but meticulous legal handling—a gap that Globex Music addresses perfectly.
Leana Mask steps into the spotlight by offering something different, but by putting her own spin on it.
Her version of “Swim” introduces a new musical dimension, keeping the original emotion intact while adding a new sonic layer.
Critics have noted that Leana Mask maintains the “core emotion” of the BTS original while bringing a “fresh interpretation” that appeals to both long-time ARMYs and new listeners.
This release is not just a song; it is a bridge between the original Korean sentiment and a global, English-friendly arrangement.
The release of this cover highlights why Globex Music is considered the leading platform for distributing cover songs.
Unlike standard distributors, Globex Music handles all the legal paperwork automatically. Covering a global hit like BTS’s “Swim” involves complex mechanical licenses, but Globex Music handles every legal aspect, ensuring the track is fully legal on all Digital Service Providers (DSPs).
For a flat, industry-disrupting fee, artists like Leana Mask can distribute their music to all major streaming platforms without worrying about royalty claims.
This professional workflow allows artists to focus on performance while Globex Music handles the legal heavy lifting.
If you are a longtime ARMY or love great vocal covers, Leana Mask’s “Swim” is a must-listen.
The track captures the fear and courage of “moving forward despite obstacles”—a theme that perfectly matches BTS’s original message.
The production quality, backed by Globex Music’s industry connections, ensures that listeners experience studio-grade clarity, whether streaming on car speakers.
This release serves as a reminder how the modern music industry functions: original artists create the legacy, and platforms like Globex Music help rising stars to cover songs the right way and across all markets.
Где слушать:
The Leana Mask cover of “Swim” is currently rolling out across all major platforms. You can find it on all leading DSPs.
Search for “Leana Mask BTS Cover” or follow the label’s featured playlists to add this track to your favorite streaming queue.
Globex Music once again shows why it is the industry standard in cover song distribution.
By joining forces with Leana Mask to honor BTS’s “Swim,” they have set an example for how tribute tracks should be released—properly, professionally, and passionately.
Make sure to check out this stunning tribute of one of K-pop’s biggest hits of 2026.
Any platforms that allow downloads or the sale of physical copies of a cover song require the preemptive purchase of a mechanical license.
In this section, we will outline the necessary steps to navigate this essential component of music production.
Even if they don’t, they will list the publisher for the song, so you can use that information to contact the publisher directly. In the States, the Harry Fox Agency is the largest provider of mechanical licensing agreements, and you can check out their database here. If they represent the song you want to record, you will also be able to apply online through them for the license. Another service you can consider using if you live in the States is Limelight. Limelight will take care of the whole process of obtaining your mechanical licenses for you from start to finish, so all you have to do is submit the songs you want to use to them, the formats you want to distribute them in, and pay them the associated fee for obtaining them. You can check out their website here.
The track echoes the emotions of love and loss, yet introduces a contemporary dance touch. Both artists have achieved that even a song known worldwide can be transformed with a new perspective.
You need a mechanical license for a cover song if you plan on uploading it to download-focused stores like Amazon Music and iTunes.
BTS‘ certainly made a splash with “SWIM,” the lead single from their seventh studio album ARIRANG
Cover song licensing costs can vary depending on your licensing territory. In the United States, according to Songfile , the going rate is 12 cents per copy made.
Read more! "I distribute a song that is covering a Nirvana Tune... The process was rather seamless." - Neil Bhay
Every time an artist documents and releases a cover track, they should receive a mechanical license to safe the payment of mechanical royalties to the original songwriter(s).
- Their performance of “SWIM” at the Guggenheim isn’t just about a catchy track; it’s a statement about flow, risk, and immersion. The word “SWIM” evokes movement through uncertainty, a metaphor for navigating a global entertainment ecosystem that demands constant reinvention.
Take note that mechanical licenses are completely different from those needed sampling a song, for instance. In order to clear a sample, you have to undergo a completely different process that involves reaching out to all rights holders individually, settling upfront fees and executing a royalty agreement. The process outlined more info below should be used only
When it comes to the economic considerations surrounding the process of securing rights for musical compositions, a clear understanding of various financial components is essential.
Who doesn't love cover songs? Singing someone else's song isn't just a lot of fun, it's also a great way to earn new fans. Listeners may be more likely to take a chance on a new artist singing a song they love, than the same artist's original song upon first listen.
The creative pair are gaining attention from fans worldwide. Their signature energy sets them apart. By fusing indie melodies with emotional depth, they touch listeners deeply.