What is Music Publishing?
Music publishing is the publishing of music. Music publishers originally published sheet music. When copyright became legally protected, music publishers started to play a role in the management of the intellectual property of composers.
In the music industry, a music publisher or publishing company is responsible for ensuring the songwriters and composers receive payment when their compositions are used commercially. Through an agreement called a publishing contract, a songwriter or composer "assigns" the copyright of their composition to a publishing company. In return, the company licenses compositions, helps monitor where compositions are used, collects royalties and distributes them to the composers. They also secure commissions for music and promote existing compositions to recording artists, film and television.
The copyrights owned and administered by publishing companies are one of the most important forms of intellectual property in the music industry. (The other is the copyright on a master recording which is typically owned by a record company) Publishing companies play a central role in managing this vital asset. Wikipedia.
Warning: Beware of Song Sharks. "Song sharks" is the trade name for any individual, or firm who, with the deliberate intention to defraud, solicits business from amateur songwriters, advising them that by having music written to their lyrics, or vice versa, they will have a finished composition which will immediately be "snatched up" by a music publisher. Often, the song shark will himself claim to be a publisher, and will tell the songwriter that his only expense will be in "defraying half the costs of publication."
If a publishing company is asking for money up front to place your song, they are probably song sharks, ignore.
Do I Need a Music Publisher?
Music publishers can help you tap into some very lucrative income streams and help you manage some difficult jobs. Although you as a songwriter can certainly handle your own publishing, and thereby keep all of the revenues, a good publishing company can potentially take your career to the next level.
How can I appoint you as my agent/representative?
(1) To collect my Neighbouring Rights Royalties as a:
Solo Artist, Member of a Band/Ensemble/Group, Session Person, Performer etc. Click here.
<hr/ > (2) To collect my Neighbouring Rights Royalties as a:
Self produced Master/Label owner. Click here.
<hr/ > (3) To collect my Neighbouring Rights Royalties as a:
Record Company. Click here.
How do I submit a song for your consideration?
Just click on HERE and complete the form.