5 Things Music Producers Should Know About Publishing
Music publishing is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the music business, yet it plays a crucial role in ensuring that producers get paid for their work. Understanding the basics can help music producers maximize their income and protect their rights. Here are five key things every music producer should know about publishing.
1. Publishing Royalties Are Separate from Master Royalties
Many producers assume that their earnings come solely from selling beats or getting upfront payments from artists. However, publishing generates royalties separate from the master recording. These include:
Performance Royalties – Earned when music is played on radio, TV, streaming services, or live venues.
Mechanical Royalties – Generated from physical and digital sales, including streams and downloads.
Sync Licensing Fees – Paid when music is used in TV, films, video games, and commercials.
2. You Need to Register Your Works to Get Paid
To collect publishing royalties, producers must register their works with key organizations:
Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC.
Mechanical Rights Organizations - to fully collect you’ll need to use multiple!
Sync Licensing Agencies to maximize exposure and revenue opportunities. Without proper registration, producers leave money on the table.
3. Split Sheets Are Essential
A split sheet is a written agreement that details the percentage of publishing ownership between collaborators (producers, songwriters, and artists). Without one, disputes can arise, leading to unpaid royalties and legal issues. Producers should:
Discuss splits before the song is released.
Ensure everything is in writing and signed.
Keep a digital or physical copy for future reference.
4. Retaining Ownership Gives Long-Term Financial Benefits
Many producers unknowingly sign deals that take away a large portion of their publishing rights in exchange for upfront payments. However, keeping control of your publishing allows you to:
Earn royalties for the lifetime of the song.
License and monetize the track in multiple ways (sync, samples, covers, etc.).
Pass on income to future generations. Being strategic about ownership ensures producers benefit from their work for years to come.
5. Sign With a Global Publishing Administrator
One of the best ways to manage your publishing effectively is by working with a global publishing administrator like Elizabeth Music Group (EMG). EMG provides:
Worldwide collection, ensuring no royalties go unclaimed.
No long-term lock-in contracts, giving producers flexibility and full transparency. Elizabeth Music Group offers a publishing administration agreement that allows you to keep full ownership in your compositions. Additionally, you can choose which songs in your catalog you would like Elizabeth Music Group to register.
Sync pitching and licensing opportunities to maximize placements in film, TV, and commercials. Unlike major publishers that take large percentages, EMG offers fair, artist-friendly deals with full transparency, making it the best option for producers who want to take control of their publishing income.
Conclusion
Understanding music publishing is crucial for producers who want to build a sustainable career. By knowing how royalties work, registering songs properly, securing split sheets, maintaining ownership, and signing with a reputable publishing administrator like Elizabeth Music Group, producers can ensure they get the compensation they deserve. Taking these steps today will lead to long-term success and financial growth in the music industry.
