Commonly asked Questions about Music Royalties

1. Am I eligible to receive music royalties for my work?

Yes, anyone who creates original music, lyrics, or compositions can earn royalties. This includes songwriters, composers, publishers, record labels, and performance artists. If you have an original piece, you can earn royalties from its use.

2. How do I apply to get royalties?

To collect royalties, you need to register your work with Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) such as IPRS, PPL, ASCAP, or other similar organisations. Register as a member and submit cue sheets detailing your music. Registering with multiple PROs can help expedite payments. Cue sheets help PROs track where your music is used, and you earn royalties based on the duration, location, and medium of use.

3. Are there different types of royalties?

Yes, there are several types:

4. For how long will I continue getting royalties?

Royalties start to accrue 9-12 months after registering with PROs. Copyright protection typically lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years in the U.S. and 60 years in India. You continue to earn royalties as long as your music is used in various media or performances.

5. Can I hire an agency to help me with the process of applying for royalties?

Yes, you can hire a Music Publishing Administrator like us. We handle licensing, registering, and collecting royalties on behalf of songwriters. We ensure that you get paid and can navigate the complexities of the royalty collection process.

6. How can I ensure my music isn’t misused?

Register your work with PROs and use digital fingerprinting services. Regularly monitor your music’s usage through tracking services and ensure that contracts and agreements are in place to protect your rights.

7. What role do digital distribution platforms play in royalty collection?

Digital distribution platforms help distribute your music across various streaming services and digital stores. They collect royalties from these platforms and distribute them to you. Ensure you understand their terms, and how they report and pay royalties.

8. How has digitization impacted royalty collection?

Digitization has streamlined the process, allowing for more accurate tracking and faster payments. However, it also means ensuring all digital uses of your music are properly tracked and reported.

9. What are some new challenges in royalty collection with the rise of music distribution apps?

Challenges include ensuring accurate metadata, tracking global usage, dealing with different payout structures from various platforms, and managing increased competition. Hiring a professional service can help navigate these complexities.

By addressing these questions, you can ensure that you are well-informed and prepared to maximise your royalty earnings in the evolving music industry landscape.

Partner with MRM India

As a Music Publishing Administrator, MRM India administers your compositions by licensing, registering, collecting royalties on behalf of your compositions and ensuring that you get paid.

“Success in the music industry isn’t something that you wait for or hope for. It is something that you create, day after day.”

― Simon S. Tam, Music Business Hacks