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23 January 2023

Music Publishing Deals for Musicians- What you Need to Know

Music publishing deal

A music publishing deal in music refers to an agreement between a songwriter or a music publisher and a record label, music publisher, or other entity. The agreement typically covers the rights to reproduce and distribute a song or set of songs.

In a publishing deal, the songwriter or music publisher grants certain rights to the record label or other entity, such as the right to reproduce and distribute the song, in exchange for royalties or other compensation. The record label or other entity is then responsible for promoting and distributing the song to the public.

Whether or not you need a publishing deal depends on your goals as a musician. If you are an independent artist, you may be able to promote and distribute your music on your own, without the need for a publishing deal. However, if you are looking to reach a wider audience, or if you want to have your songs used in films, television shows, or other media, a publishing deal may be beneficial.

It’s important to note that a publishing deal is not the only way to get your music out there, but it can be helpful in certain situations. For example, a publisher can help you get your music on TV, film, and video games, as well as help you with sync licensing, which is when your music is used in a commercial, film, or TV show. Additionally, a publisher can also help you get your songs covered by other artists, and help you collect performance royalties.

If you are considering a publishing deal, it is important to do your research and understand the terms of the agreement. It’s also important to work with a reputable and experienced music publisher, who can help you navigate the music industry and achieve your goals as a musician.

In conclusion, a publishing deal in music is a contractual agreement between a songwriter or music publisher and a record label, music publisher or other entity that covers the rights to reproduce and distribute a song or set of songs. Whether you need one or not depends on your goals as a musician and the resources you have available to promote and distribute your music. It’s important to research and understand the terms of the agreement before signing and working with a reputable and experienced music publisher can be beneficial.

Explore the following music publishers:
  • Songtrust: Songtrust is a global music publishing company that helps artists and songwriters collect royalties for their music. They provide services such as registration, administration and global royalty collection.
  • CD Baby Pro: CD Baby Pro offers a range of services for independent artists including music publishing and distribution. They provide administration services, synch licensing and global royalty collection.
  • TuneCore Publishing: TuneCore Publishing offers a range of services for independent artists including administration, registration and global royalty collection. They also offer synch licensing opportunities and a catalog management system.
  • ASCAP: The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is one of the oldest and largest performing rights organizations in the world. They provide services such as registration, administration and royalty collection for songwriters and composers.
  • BMI: Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) is another performing rights organization that offers services such as registration, administration and royalty collection for songwriters and composers.
  • SESAC: The Society of European Stage Authors and Composers (SESAC) is a performing rights organization that offers services such as registration, administration and royalty collection forsongwriters and composers.
  • Harry Fox Agency: The Harry Fox Agency (HFA) is a music publishing company that provides rights management and licensing services for songwriters and composers.
  • Music Gateway: Music Gateway is a platform that connects musicians with industry professionals such as record labels, publishers, and sync agents. They also provide services such as registration and administration.

These are some of the most popular music publishing services for musicians. They provide registration, administration and global royalty collection, synch licensing opportunities and a catalog management system. By using these services, musicians can ensure they are getting paid for the use of their music and also have the opportunity to be discovered by industry professionals.

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