McGrath of Harlow,
I agree that folks should feel free to change words and melodies to suit their style, sensibilities, or memory. But I think the ownership should stay with the original composer. There is a huge difference between a writing a song and speaking a sentence. Are you saying that people who write books shouldn't own the copyright to the book? What about computer programs, paintings, inventions, and TV scripts? Perhaps I'm misunderstanding you, but you seem to be saying that professional songwriters shouldn't get paid for pursuing their profession.