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Why all musicians should consider registering with a PRO

What is a PRO organization?

A Performing Rights Organization (PRO) is a non-profit or for-profit entity that licenses the public performance rights of musical works on behalf of its members (eg. songwriter, composer, music publisher). PROs collect royalties whenever a copyrighted song is performed publicly and distribute them to their members.

In addition to collecting royalties from public performances, such as radio broadcasts, nightclub plays, and concerts, and distributing those earnings to their members, PROs can also license the use of copyrighted sounds to businesses that wish to play music publicly. Furthermore, they advocate for songwriters by lobbying for laws and regulations that protect their rights and interests.

Should you go PRO?

There are numerous benefits to registering with a PRO, particularly for active musicians who create original music. 

Note: Cover songs cannot be registered at a PRO, as PROs handle the rights of the original composition, not the performance itself.

If you release music regularly, and your work has traction, being registered with a PRO can significantly increase your earnings. PRO memberships enable the PRO to collect Public Performance Royalties on your behalf. These potential earnings would complement what you receive from your distributor, who collects Mechanical Royalties.

Additionally, being registered with a PRO can enhance your exposure in the music industry. PROs offer both active and passive methods to increase the visibility of your music:

  • By actively promoting your music to potential licensees; a) Internally, showcasing it to industry professionals, and/or b) externally, highlighting achievements and new releases on social media

  • Passive exposure through licensing makes your music more accessible for legal use

  • It adds credibility to your name, particularly for smaller artists, by demonstrating that you take your music career seriously and understand the business aspect
  • Enhances your chances of getting airplay on radio stations. 
Note: When reaching out to stations, remember to include a link to your FLAC file and your IPI (Interested Party Information) number.

Some extra considerations about registering with PRO organizations

There are often associated costs. Some organizations only require a one-time admission fee, which is usually not high, there may also be an annual membership fee.

It's important to note that PROs have limitations in their scope of services. They primarily collect royalties for public performances of your music but do not handle royalties for other uses, such as mechanical reproductions (e.g., physical releases, downloads) or synchronization (e.g., use in movies or TV shows).

  • Not all musicians need to register with a PRO. If you primarily perform your own music in small venues, you may not see significant benefits from registering with a PRO
  • The laws and regulations governing PROs can vary from country to country, and there are numerous PROs worldwide 
  • Musicians have the option to register with multiple PROs to collect royalties for performances in different countries.
  • You are often not obligated to register with a PRO in your country of origin or residence, meaning you have the flexibility to choose the PRO that best suits your needs.

How to choose a PRO, then?

With numerous PROs operating worldwide, selecting the right one for you requires careful consideration. Here's what to keep in mind:

  • Location: Even if many opt for the PRO of their country of origin or residence, there is no obligation to do so. Instead, consider where your music is likely to be ‘performed’ the most. Choose a PRO that has a strong presence in those territories.
  • Genre: While PROs generally do not specialize in specific music genres, some may have a higher concentration of members from certain genres. Check if the PRO aligns with your musical style and preferences.
  • Membership requirements (and fees): Before committing to a PRO, ensure you meet their membership requirements and understand any associated fees. If you have budget constraints, consider the affordability of membership fees.
  • Reputation: Research the reputation of the PRO you're considering. Look for online discussions, reviews, and testimonials from other members. Opting for an established, reputable organization with a large membership base is often a wise choice. 
German PRO GEMA, for example, has over 90,000 members, and is considered very reliable and professional.

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