What is a publishing split and why does it matter?

Beat Store : https://stephenallenmusic.beatstars.com/

When your beat becomes a song—especially if it’s released commercially—there are two types of royalties: master royalties and publishing royalties. Publishing splits decide how the songwriting revenue is shared. If you don’t claim your share, you could miss out on money owed to you forever.


 What Is a Publishing Split?

Publishing royalties come from the composition—not the recording. This includes the:

  • Melody
  • Chord progressions
  • Lyrics
  • Arrangement

A publishing split is an agreement on who owns what % of the song’s composition.


 Who Usually Gets a Share?

  • Producer(s): Often 25%–50%
  • Songwriter(s)/Rapper(s): Often split the remaining 50%–75%
  • Co-producers or loop makers: May also be included

 Note: Every collaboration is different. Always negotiate in advance.


 Why It Matters

Publishing splits determine:

  • Who gets paid by PROs (like ASCAP, BMI, SESAC)
  • How sync licensing income is divided
  • Your legal rights to the song as a writer

If you skip this step, your beat might get used in a hit song, and you’ll earn nothing unless you’re listed as a rights holder.


 How to Manage Splits

  • Always talk splits early—before the song drops.
  • Use a Split Sheet to put everything in writing.
  • Register your share with your Performing Rights Organization (PRO) and publishing admin like Songtrust or BeatStars Publishing.


 Final Tip:

Every beat you sell that turns into a released song can earn you publishing royalties—but only if your name is on it.Don’t skip the paperwork.

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