The Importance of BMI or ASCAP

 

The Role of Performing Rights Organizations

Performing Rights Organizations serve as intermediaries between music creators and businesses that use music publicly, such as radio stations, television networks, streaming platforms, live venues, and more. Here are some key aspects of their role:

Monitoring and Licensing

PROs monitor public performances of music, collect licensing fees from businesses, and distribute royalties to the songwriters, composers, and publishers. They ensure that artists receive fair compensation whenever their music is publicly performed, broadcasted, or streamed.

Global Royalty Collection

PROs have extensive networks and affiliations with similar organizations worldwide, enabling them to collect royalties globally. They establish reciprocal agreements with international PROs, allowing artists to receive royalties for their music played outside their home country.

Advocacy and Education

PROs actively advocate for the rights of music creators, lobbying for fair compensation and copyright protection. They also provide valuable resources, educational programs, and workshops to help artists navigate the music industry, understand their rights, and manage their careers effectively.

The Benefits of Joining a Performing Rights Organization

Now let’s explore the specific benefits that come with joining a performing rights organization:

Protection of Intellectual Property

By affiliating with a PRO, artists can register their works and establish legal proof of ownership. This protects their intellectual property rights and provides evidence in case of copyright infringement or disputes. PROs offer a secure platform to document and protect artistic creations.

Royalty Collection and Distribution

PROs have efficient systems in place to collect royalties on behalf of artists. They monitor public performances, negotiate licensing agreements, and distribute royalties accurately to the rightful creators. Joining a PRO ensures that artists receive fair compensation for their musical works.

Global Reach and Royalty Collection

Affiliating with a PRO grants artists access to a vast network of international PROs. This allows them to earn royalties from their music played or performed in other countries. The global reach of PROs expands artists’ earning potential and exposes their music to a wider audience.

Advocacy and Support

Performing Rights Organizations advocate for the rights of music creators, striving for fair compensation and protecting their interests. They provide legal and industry expertise, support artists in legal matters, and offer guidance on copyright issues. Artists can benefit from the collective power of a PRO working on their behalf.

Choosing Between BMI and ASCAP

Two prominent performing rights organizations in the United States are BMI and ASCAP. Both offer similar services and benefits to their members. However, artists must evaluate their specific needs, research the organizations, and consider factors such as membership fees, royalty distribution methods, customer support, and additional services provided. It is recommended to consult with other artists or industry professionals to make an informed decision based on individual requirements.

Can I join both BMI and ASCAP?

Yes, you can be a member of both ASCAP and BMI at the same time. While ASCAP and BMI are both performing rights organizations (PROs) that offer similar services and benefits, they operate independently, and artists have the option to affiliate with either or both organizations. Each PRO has its own membership agreements, royalty collection systems, and distribution methods. Artists may choose to join multiple PROs to maximize their potential for royalty collection and ensure comprehensive protection of their rights.

When you join multiple performing rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP and BMI, each organization will handle the collection and distribution of royalties separately based on their own systems and agreements. They have mechanisms in place to track and manage the royalties for the songs affiliated with their respective organizations. While it’s possible that some overlap may occur in terms of tracking performances and royalty payments, the PROs have processes in place to avoid duplicate payments and ensure accurate distribution of royalties to their members. It’s important to provide accurate and up-to-date information about your songs to each PRO to avoid any potential confusion or discrepancies. Additionally, you can reach out to the PROs directly if you have any specific concerns or questions regarding your membership and royalty payments.

BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) and ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers):

Joining a performing rights organization like BMI or ASCAP is crucial for musicians and songwriters aiming to protect their rights, collect royalties, and navigate the complex world of the music industry. These organizations serve as advocates, collectors, and distributors of royalties, ensuring that artists receive fair compensation for their creative works. By affiliating with a PRO, artists can focus on their craft, knowing that their intellectual property is protected and their music is generating income. The benefits of joining a performing rights organization extend beyond financial rewards, empowering artists to thrive in an industry that respects their creativity and supports their rights.

This article is written by Aorua.

BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.):
Sign-up Link: BMI Sign-Up

ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers):
Sign-up Link: ASCAP Sign-Up