Start Royalties Early

If you’re wondering -

"Should I apply for royalties at the beginning of my career?"

The answer is a resounding yes. Applying for royalties early on can have significant benefits, helping you earn more, grow faster, and stay relevant in the ever-changing music industry.

Here's why:

1. Maximise Your Earnings from Day One

When you apply for royalties, you get paid every time your music is played. Without this, you miss out on potential income, even if your music gains traction. Imagine your song becoming a hit and not earning a penny from it. Applying for royalties ensures you get paid for your work, whether your music becomes an instant hit or takes time to gain popularity.

To ensure you're covered, join various performing rights organisations (PROs) like IPRS, PRS, ASCAP, and neighbouring rights organisations like SoundExchange, ISAMRA, and PPL. These memberships are crucial for collecting royalties from publishing and sound recordings.

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2. Accelerate Your Career Growth

Music festival organisers and business owners often hesitate to play music that isn't registered for royalties due to copyright concerns. Without proper licence, they risk legal issues, which leads to missed opportunities for you.

By applying for royalties and joining organisations like PROs and neighbouring rights groups, your music can be played in more venues, leading to greater exposure and a growing fan base. Also, consider becoming a member of associations like MCAI (Music Composers’ Association of India) to further protect your rights and expand your network.

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3. Stay Relevant in a Dynamic Industry

The music industry evolves rapidly. Staying relevant requires continuous skill upgrades and sometimes taking a break to explore new directions. Having a steady income from royalties can make these transitions smoother, ensuring you can afford to take the necessary time off without financial stress.

Protect Your Copyrights and Secure Your Income

Applying for royalties early in your career not only secures your financial future but also ensures you stay compliant with copyright laws. At MRM India (previously Joshua Inc), we specialise in helping artists like you set up systems to receive rightful royalties.