Performance Royalties

How You Earn Them:

  • You must register your songs with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO).

    • In the U.S.: ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC.

  • When your song is performed, the venue, broadcaster, or streaming service pays a licensing fee to the PRO.

  • The PRO then tracks the performances and distributes royalties to songwriters and publishers.

Types of Performances That Qualify:

  • Radio airplay (FM, satellite, internet radio like Pandora)

  • Live performances (even if you perform your own song)

  • Streaming services (Spotify, Apple Music)

  • TV shows and commercials

  • Bars, restaurants, gyms, and retail stores

Who Gets Paid:
Performance royalties are split:

  • 50% to the songwriter

  • 50% to the publisher (if you self-publish, you keep both)

How Much You Make:

  • Rates vary depending on:

    • The type of performance (e.g., TV vs. live show)

    • The size of the audience

    • The country or region

  • Streaming pays less per play, but large volumes add up over time.

Important Notes:

  • PROs also offer tools to submit setlists for live shows (even small gigs), allowing you to collect royalties for performing your own songs.

  • You must register all your songs with your PRO to receive payments.

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