Whats a PRO and why should I care as a songwriter?

As a songwriter, it’s essential to get registered with a Performance Rights Organization (PRO) in order to ensure you are fairly compensated for your work. PROs, such as ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, collect and distribute royalties for musicians when their music is played publicly. This includes performances on radio, television, and online, as well as live performances at venues like bars, clubs, and festivals.

One of the main functions of a PRO is to track when and where a musician’s music is played. This can be a daunting task, given the vast number of radio stations, television shows, and online platforms that exist. To help with this process, PROs often use technology like watermarking and fingerprinting to identify when a song is played. Once a performance has been tracked, the PRO will collect the appropriate royalties and distribute them to the musician or copyright holder.

In addition to tracking and distributing royalties, PROs also offer a number of other services to musicians. This can include legal representation, copyright protection, and access to industry resources and networking opportunities. These resources and support can be vital for songwriters to succeed in the music industry, as they allow them to focus on what they do best, creating music.

As a songwriter, you can take advantage of these resources and support by joining a PRO. By becoming a member of a PRO, you can ensure that your music is tracked and that you receive the royalties you are owed. It also gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your rights as a musician are being protected.

In conclusion, Performance Rights Organizations play a vital role in the music industry by ensuring that musicians are fairly compensated for their work. As a songwriter, it’s essential to get registered with a PRO in order to take advantage of the resources and support they offer and to ensure that you are getting the royalties you deserve.