Music publishing ensures songwriters and producers get paid when their work is used—whether streamed, performed, or synced to media. It’s about managing rights, collecting royalties, and maximizing income from your songs. Without it, you could miss out on money you're owed.
The Roles of Publishers, PROs, and Administrators
Publishers: Promote your music, secure licenses, and collect royalties. They can also help land your songs in media like films or ads.
PROs (Performance Rights Organizations): Groups like ASCAP and BMI collect royalties when your songs are played publicly, such as on radio or at concerts.
Administrators: Handle royalty collection and song registrations without taking ownership of your music.
Registering Your Songs with a PRO
Join a PRO: Sign up with ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC.
Register Your Songs: Log in, submit your song title, co-writers, and ownership percentages.
Confirm Details: Ensure splits match any agreements you have with collaborators.
Mechanical vs. Performance Royalties
Mechanical Royalties: Earned when your song is reproduced
(e.g., CDs, downloads, or streaming).
Performance Royalties: Paid when your music is played publicly, such as at events or on TV.
Tracking Your Royalties
Use tools like Songtrust or Audiam to monitor earnings.
Review statements from PROs and distributors regularly.
Cross-check data to catch errors or missing payments.
Comments