1. Understanding PROs and Their Role #
PROs are responsible for collecting performance royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers, and music publishers when their music is played in public venues, broadcasted on radio or TV, or streamed online. Each country typically has its own PRO, but they often work together internationally to ensure royalties are collected and distributed across borders.
2. European PROs #
If you’re based in Europe, registering with a European PRO makes sense. Some of the leading European PROs include:
- GEMA (Germany): One of the largest and most influential PROs in Europe. GEMA has a robust international network and a reputation for efficient royalty collection.
- PRS for Music (UK): Known for its strong international agreements, PRS for Music has a good reputation for collecting royalties both in Europe and globally.
- SACEM (France): SACEM has a solid international presence and is known for its comprehensive support of artists.
- STIM (Sweden): Highly regarded, especially in the Nordic countries, STIM is known for its efficiency in royalty collection across Europe.
But look for the PRO in the country you are located in.
3. International Reach #
When it comes to international reach, especially concerning the United States, consider the following:
- Global Reciprocal Agreements: Most European PROs have reciprocal agreements with their counterparts in other countries, including the U.S., to ensure royalty collection across borders. For instance, PRS for Music, GEMA, and SACEM have agreements with major U.S. PROs like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.
- Direct Membership: If you anticipate significant traction in the U.S., it might be beneficial to consider direct membership with a U.S.-based PRO (e.g., ASCAP, BMI). This approach ensures you don’t miss out on any royalties collected within the U.S. that might not be fully captured by a European PRO’s reciprocal agreement.
4. Dual Membership #
You can also consider dual membership, where you register with both a European PRO and a U.S. PRO. This strategy ensures comprehensive coverage and maximizes your royalty collection potential. However, dual membership can sometimes lead to complications in administration and distribution, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. For example, in order to register in ASCAP you will need an American bank account.
5. Technology and Distribution #
Evaluate the technology and transparency each PRO offers regarding tracking and reporting plays and royalties. Some organizations provide more detailed and timely data, which can be crucial for managing your income and understanding where your music is most popular.
6. Key Considerations #
- Reputation and Reliability: Research each PRO’s reputation for accuracy and timeliness in royalty payments.
- Fees and Costs: Compare the membership fees and the percentage they take from collected royalties.
- Customer Support: Consider the level of support and service provided, especially if you need assistance with international royalty collection.
7. Recommendation #
If your European base, a strong starting point would be to register with a well-connected European PRO such as PRS for Music or GEMA. Both have strong international ties and a good reputation for collecting royalties in the U.S. through their partnerships with U.S. PROs.
If you are based in the US or your music begins to gain significant traction in the U.S., consider exploring direct membership with a U.S. PRO like ASCAP or BMI to ensure full coverage and maximum royalty collection.