The song is owned by someone, in this case it was the song writer. Before you sing it professionally you need their permission and you will pay royalties.
False. You and anybody can sing and record any currently published song without asking anybody’s permission. Go ahead and record yourself singing ‘Hey Jude’, upload it to iTunes and Youtube, release it on vinyl, 8-track tape and wax cylinder, and see if a SWAT team will be breaking your doors and shooting your dog.