Free artist tools / PRO comparison
BMI VS ASCAP: WHICH PRO SHOULD I JOIN?
A performing rights organization (PRO) collects money for songwriters when their songs are played on radio, TV, in venues and online. Here's how the U.S. options compare.
| PRO | Who can join | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BMI | Open to any songwriter | One of the two largest U.S. PROs. Check bmi.com for current sign-up terms. |
| ASCAP | Open to any songwriter | The other of the two largest U.S. PROs, run by its members. Check ascap.com for current sign-up terms. |
| SESAC | Invitation only | Smaller and selective. You can't just sign up. |
| GMR | Invitation only | Global Music Rights. Small and invite-only, focused on established writers. |
HOW TO CHOOSE
- If you're new, pick BMI or ASCAP. Both are open to everyone.
- Ask your co-writers which one they use. It doesn't have to match, but it makes paperwork easier.
- Compare current sign-up terms and payment schedules on each official site, since they change.
WHAT A PRO DOESN'T COVER
A PRO collects performance royalties for songwriters. Streaming payouts for the recording come through your distributor, and some other royalties (like mechanicals and digital performance for recordings) are collected by separate organizations.
General information only, not legal or financial advice. Confirm details with each organization.
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