JPF Home Page Forums General Messages Success Stories Forum Royalties from BMI

Hi folks, long times since I posted here. Been very busy. I always put my publishing company on every song I register with BMI. I recently got my first BMI statement and finally starting to make some money. The money I'm going to receive as publisher: is that all my money, or is it up to me to disburse the money to the songwriters? I only ask because when I look at the statement for just me as the songwriter, there's no money or activity. So I'm confused. I sent a message to BMI, but who knows how long before I hear back from them. Any help is greatly appreciated. Donna Dutchess

Hi Donna!

I did a cursory review of BMI's pages and found the following link :

BMI General Royalty information

I think what you're looking for is noted under the "How Royalties are Divided" section. I hope this helps!


Sincerely,

Dave

Good to see you back Donna! First off, congratulations!

I'm with ASACAP. But the royalties you earn as sole publisher is yours alone. Any writers will have to be registered with their PRO to receive writer's royalties. If you're the writer and publisher, you'll receive both. If there are more than one writer, the writer's royalties will be shared. As far as upfront licensing fees. That will depend on your publishing contract with the other writers. Most share licensing fees 50/50. As far as all the musicians and vocalists involved in the production. Best to pay them upfront for their services and have them sign a release form (I have one if you need it).

Best, John

I think what is confusing me is that when I look at the writer's royalty statement, there's nothing. Maybe a timing issue?

Did you register as a writer Donna?

Yes

With ASCAP, Publisher's royalties and writer's royalties come in different months. Probably the same for BMI.

Thank you John!

Glad I could help Donna.

Best, John

I'm with SOCAN and I'm both publisher and writer, so royalties are 50/50. The amount is usually equal, and I receive both the same time credited to my bank account. Other PRO may do it another way.

ASCAP pays writer's domestic royalties in Jan. Then Feb it's writer's international royalties. March is publisher royalties. Then the cycle continues in April. So, writers receive royalties 8 months a year and publishers 4 months a year. Probably BMI is similar. SESAC, I have no idea.

John

Hey Donna,

Were you able to get the disbursements sorted out?


Peace,

Dave