Hi Michael. I can only relate my personal experience. For years I performed my songs at many venues using a CD with music tracks. I kept a log of my performances at sonicbids.com. I applied for and received a grant from ASCAP for these performances. I think I received these on a quarterly basis. However, I only had to apply once per year. I suppose one could argue their case with a PRO if they have evidence - as you do - if one is getting thousands of plays online. However I think this is handled by Sound Exchange.