Maximizing Royalties for Independent Artists: A Must-Do Checklist
Independent artists face many challenges in the music industry, and one of the most frustrating is missing out on royalties because their music isn’t properly registered. Your music is valuable, and if it’s not registered with the right organizations, you could be leaving money on the table every time it’s played. Performance royalties, digital royalties, and mechanical royalties can add up significantly, but only if you’ve taken the necessary steps to collect them.
Here’s a simple checklist to make sure you're getting every penny you're owed:
1. Performance Rights Organizations (PROs)
PROs collect performance royalties for when your music is played on radio, TV, or live. Missing this step means losing out on one of the biggest streams of revenue for your music. Each country has its own PRO, so make sure to research which one applies to you. In the U.S., you have the following options:
ASCAP: Registration is free if you sign up as a writer or both a writer and publisher.
BMI: Offers a similar service, and pricing may vary depending on your location.
SESAC: This organization is invitation-only.
2. SoundExchange
SoundExchange collects digital performance royalties from online platforms like Pandora and SiriusXM. Many artists don’t realize that even digital plays generate income. Registering is free, so don’t miss out.
3. Songtrust
Songtrust helps you collect publishing royalties globally. Whether you write songs for yourself or other artists, you need a service like this to make sure no royalties are lost across different territories. Registration is $100 annually, which is a small investment compared to the potential earnings from your music.
4. Mediabase
Mediabase tracks radio airplay, giving you insight into how much your music is being played. The earlier you submit your music, the easier it is to track. This is crucial for knowing where your royalties are coming from and to make sure all plays are accounted for.
5. The MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective)
Mechanical royalties are often overlooked but can be a big chunk of your earnings. The MLC ensures you get paid for every stream or download of your music in the U.S. Registration is free, and it’s an essential step for any artist making music available online.
In the music industry, every penny counts. By taking these steps to register your music properly, you’ll ensure that you collect all the royalties you deserve. As an independent artist, don’t let improper registration hold you back from getting paid for your hard work.
