Navigating Music Licensing and Royalties: A Comprehensive Guide
- Aaris Schroeder
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Creating music that resonates with audiences and gets played on the radio requires understanding music licensing and royalty options. This guide will help you navigate these essential components of the music industry.
Understanding Performing Rights Organizations (PROs)
A Performing Rights Organization (PRO) is vital for collecting royalties when your music is publicly performed or broadcast. Here are the major options:
ASCAP: Ideal for touring artists and publishers with multiple clients.
BMI: Offers economical options for independent artists and publishers.
SESAC: A smaller PRO providing personalized attention to its members in the US and Europe.
AMRA: A newer PRO specializing in streaming royalties for the US and European markets.
The key takeaway here is that selecting a PRO is essential for receiving accurate and timely payments once your music has been mixed and mastered.
The Role of Music Publishing Administration
Music publishing administration companies help manage your copyrights and collect royalties. SongTrust is a popular choice for artists. It does not replace your PRO; rather, you must be affiliated with a PRO to have a SongTrust account.
Benefits of Music Publishing Administration
Simplified Registration: Easily register your songs with PROs.
Global Royalty Collection: Collect royalties from various sources worldwide.
Real-Time Reporting: Track your earnings and view detailed reports.
Music administrators like SongTrust help collect performance royalties directly. Artists can also collect mechanical royalties that PROs do not cover, such as those from Spotify, Apple Music or Tidal. All clients collect from the Harry Fox Agency (HFA), The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC), and international collection agencies. Additionally, they monetize user-generated content on YouTube through its Content ID service.
Importance of Distribution Services
Distribution services are crucial for artists aiming to reach a broad audience. Traditionally, artists would sign with a label that had a distribution department or go directly to a distributor. One notable distributor is KOCHE Records, now known as MNRK Music Group. Their role is to ensure your music is available on digital platforms, in stores and on the radio.
Digital Music Distribution Options
Distribution companies help get your music onto streaming platforms, digital stores and other outlets. Popular options include:
DistroKid is budget-friendly and highly recommended at UBO Entertainment (UBO ENT), our parent business. Many independent artists must handle services typically provided by a label while retaining full rights to their music.
The DistroKid platform costs under $25 per year, allowing unlimited project distribution within that year. This flexibility is liberating for many artists and publishers, as they retain 100% of their royalties. The process is straightforward and artists can adjust release dates as needed.
DistroKid also offers tools for networking and building connections with other artists. Features like “Fan Link” and “Hyper-follow” keep fans updated on new releases. Additionally, DistroKid provides add-ons to organize your YouTube presence and other tools to help promote your music seamlessly.
Collecting Digital Performance Royalties
SoundExchange is crucial for collecting and distributing digital performance royalties. They ensure you get paid when your music is played on digital platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora. This organization collects and distributes royalties from these digital music platforms.
The Importance of Music Creator Rights
Understanding music creator rights is essential for artists serious about their careers. By using SoundExchange, you advocate for fair compensation for your work.
Conclusion: Simplifying Music Publishing and Distribution
In conclusion, music publishing and distribution do not have to be daunting tasks for new artists. By following these steps, you can find success in the industry.
Key Takeaways
Choose the Right PRO: Consider your career goals and the type of music you create.
Utilize Music Publishing Administration: Simplify managing your copyrights and collecting royalties.
Select a Reliable Distribution Company: Ensure your music reaches the widest audience possible.
Register with SoundExchange: Get paid for digital performances of your music.
By understanding these key components, you can navigate the music industry and maximize your earning potential. If you find yourself overwhelmed with writing, performing, or working full-time, UBO ENT offers these services at a low rate. We handle the details, allowing you to focus on your music while ensuring you receive royalties. The best part? We charge a one-time fee per project and do not take a percentage of your royalties like traditional distribution companies.
GET YOUR MUSIC HEARD THROUGH UBO ENT PUBLISHING & DISTRIBUTION SERVICES. SIGN UP FOR A CONSULTATION TODAY!
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