What Is BMI?

Who BMI Pays:

  • Songwriters
  • Composers
  • Publishers

Each song earns two main shares:

  • Writer’s share – paid directly to the songwriter
  • Publisher’s share – paid to the publisher (or to you if you self-publish)

 You must register as both a writer and a publisher to collect 100% of your earnings.


 What Counts as a Performance:

  • AM/FM and satellite radio
  • TV networks and cable channels
  • Streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.)
  • Concerts and small venue performances
  • Bars, restaurants, gyms, retail stores


 How You Earn:

  1. Join BMI for free as a writer (no cost).
  2. Register your songs using their online system.
  3. Receive quarterly royalty payments based on how often and where your music is performed.


 Steps to Register:

  1. Visit bmi.com
  2. Create a writer account (free)
  3. Create a publisher account ($150 one-time fee for individuals)
  4. Register each of your songs under your account


 How BMI Calculates Royalties:

  • Tracks performances using digital fingerprinting, cue sheets, and performance reports
  • Payouts depend on usage volume, platform, and audience reach
  • Live shows can be reported via BMI’s Live Performances (BMI Live) tool


 Important Notes:

  • You cannot be registered with both BMI and ASCAP—choose one.
  • BMI only collects performance royalties—you must sign up with the MLC for mechanicals.
  • Payouts can differ slightly from ASCAP, depending on tracking methods and contracts.
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