9 Places You Need to Register Your Song to Get Paid

As a songwriter or musician, understanding where to register your music is crucial for ensuring you get paid for your hard work. Whether you're an independent artist or part of a larger label, knowing the right places to register your songs can significantly impact your earnings. Here are nine essential places you need to consider.

Performance Rights Organizations

Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) play a vital role in collecting performance royalties on behalf of songwriters and publishers. When your music is played in public—whether on the radio, in a restaurant, or during a live performance—these organizations ensure you receive your due compensation. Here are the key players:

• ASCAP: The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers is one of the largest PROs in the U.S., known for its strong advocacy for songwriters' rights.
• BMI: Broadcast Music, Inc. offers similar services and is another dominant player in the performance rights space.
• SESAC: The Society of European Stage Authors and Composers is a smaller, invitation-only organization that also collects performance royalties.

Licensing and Distribution Agencies

To ensure that your music reaches a wide audience and generates income, registering with the right licensing and distribution agencies is essential. These agencies facilitate the licensing of your music for sales and usage.

• Mechanical Licensing Agencies:
  • Harry Fox Agency: This agency handles mechanical licenses, allowing you to earn royalties from physical and digital formats.
  • Music Reports: Provides comprehensive licensing and royalty services, making it easier for you to get paid.
• Digital Distribution Platforms:
  • DistroKid: Known for its quick and easy distribution process, DistroKid helps get your music on all major streaming services.
  • TuneCore: A popular choice among independent artists for music distribution, offering a range of services.
  • CD Baby: This platform not only distributes your music but also provides publishing services to maximize your earnings.

Streaming Services and Social Media Platforms

With the rise of digital music consumption, streaming services and social media platforms have become essential for monetizing your music. Registering your songs with these platforms can help you earn streaming music royalties.

• Streaming Services:
  • Spotify for Artists: This platform provides tools for artists to manage their music and track royalties effectively.
  • Apple Music for Artists: Offers insights and analytics to help you understand your music's performance.
• Social Media Platforms:
  • Facebook Creator Studio: Monetize your music content on Facebook, allowing you to reach a broader audience.
  • YouTube Content ID: Protect and monetize your music on YouTube, ensuring you receive royalties from views and streams.

Synchronization Licensing and Music Publishing

Synchronization licensing and music publishing are crucial avenues for earning money through sync deals. These agreements allow your music to be used in films, commercials, and other media.

• Synchronization Licensing Companies:
  • Songtradr: A marketplace that connects artists with opportunities to license music for various media projects.
  • Audiosocket: Offers licensing solutions for a range of projects, making it easier for creatives to find the right music.
• Music Publishing Companies:
  • Kobalt: A modern publishing company that emphasizes transparency and fair treatment of songwriters.
  • Universal Music Publishing: One of the largest music publishing companies, providing extensive resources for songwriters.

Additional Opportunities for Registration

Beyond traditional avenues, there are several additional opportunities to explore that can maximize your royalty earnings.

• SoundExchange: This organization collects digital performance royalties for sound recordings, ensuring you get paid for streams on digital platforms.
• Foreign Collection Societies: Organizations like GEMA in Germany, PRS in the UK, and APRA AMCOS in Australia ensure you get your royalties internationally.
• Crowdfunding Platforms: Use platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo to fund your music projects and engage with your audience.
• NFT Platforms: Minting your songs as NFTs can open up new revenue streams through royalties and sales.
• Live Event Registration: Register your songs with local venues to collect performance royalties during live shows.
• Royalty Accounting Software: Tools like Royalty Exchange and Songtrust help you manage and track your royalties efficiently.
• Music Rights Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the NMPA advocate for songwriters' rights, helping to protect your interests.

Finally, registering your music properly is essential for ensuring you earn what you deserve for your creative efforts. By leveraging performance rights organizations, licensing agencies, streaming services, and additional opportunities, you can maximize your royalty earnings and focus on what you love most—creating music.