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What's a Publisher?

In the music industry, a publisher manages the rights to musical compositions, including music and lyrics. For example when artists make cover songs, the publishers are the ones making sure that the original songwriters are compensated properly.


Key Functions of a Publisher

A publisher plays several critical roles:

  • Copyright Management: Publishers ensure that rights are correctly registered and enforced, preventing unauthorized use of musical compositions.
  • Licensing: They negotiate licensing agreements that allow artists to perform or record a songwriter's composition legally.
  • Royalty Collection: Publishers collect royalties on behalf of songwriters from various sources, including mechanical royalties from sales and performance royalties from live shows and streaming services.
  • Promotion: Publishers promote songs to increase visibility and pitch them to artists, film, and TV producers for potential placements.

How to Include This in Your Music Distribution

If you distribute cover songs with us, it’s essential to look for the original rights owners on PRO databases like GEMA, SACEM, and other performing rights organizations. You must also credit the publishers (and sub-publishers if applicable), along with the full names of the original composers and lyricists.


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