How to Easily Collect Live Performance Royalties
Did you know you earn money every time someone performs your song live, even if you’re not the one on stage? These payments are called live performance royalties, and collecting them is easier than you might think.
The Key to Getting Paid: Joining a Performing Rights Organization (PRO)
In the US, joining a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC is essential. These organizations act as your partners in making sure you get paid for live performances. Once you sign up, submitting your setlists becomes a straightforward process. Let’s break down how it works with each PRO.
How to Submit Your Setlists and Collect Performance Royalties
ASCAP OnStage
If you’re an ASCAP member playing gigs around the US, the ASCAP OnStage program helps track your live performance royalties. Here’s how it works: you simply log your gigs by providing details about the songs you performed. You can do this easily through your ASCAP Member Access account or the ASCAP Mobile app, available anytime. These royalties then get added directly to your regular ASCAP payouts, keeping everything in one place. It’s simple and convenient!
BMI Live
BMI Live offers a similar process for their members. You register your setlists with key details like the date, venue, and songs played. You can either sign up on their website or use the BMI Mobile app, available on both iPhone and Android, to submit your info on the go. To ensure you don’t miss out, BMI pays out these royalties quarterly.
SESAC
SESAC members benefit from time-saving features, especially for recurring tours or setlists. You can create templates for your setlists, allowing you to quickly update your performance information. Log in to your SESAC Affiliate Services account and fill out the live performance forms. Make sure to include venue details, dates, and the songs performed so you don’t miss out on royalties.
Collecting Your Performance Royalties: Final Steps
By staying consistent and regularly updating your PRO with setlist information, you’ll be well on your way to collecting the live performance royalties you’ve earned. Take advantage of these tools, and you’ll see that collecting these payments is easier than ever.
