Registering works as PRO writer or self-publisher

[andreww]

Does anybody have any opinions on the advantages of an indie singer/writer registering with BMI as a writer vs. as a writer and self-publisher. I know a publisher name would appear more professional on a self-produced indie CD, but other than that, does anybody see any advantage? It does cost about $150 more to set up a publishing co. with BMI than to join simply as a writer, and it will cost a small amount to register the publishing company as a new business locally, too.

 

[lykwydchykyn]

I'm no expert on how this stuff works, but I am set up as a publisher and writer through ASCAP and it cost me nothing. ASCAP and BMI aren't publishers; they're PRO's. That means they collect royalties for published works and send them to the writer and publisher of the work. Even if you're self-publishing a work, you need to register with a PRO if you think the work will get played in a venue where you can collect royalties.
I have a friend that I wrote some tunes with who's with BMI; it cost him to set up as a publisher too, but I think he gets royalties from places that ASCAP doesn't survey, because he's getting paid on songs that I've never made a dime on.

 

[glynb]

I don't think it's worth joining any of these organisations just to impress anyone.

People who don't know what they are aren't impressed. people who DO know what they are aren't impressed either, as they know you only have to pay a fee to get in!

Join such organisations for the services they offer you. Check what's on offer. If you feel the services would be useful by all means join.

 

[lykwydchykyn]

Exactly; we set up publishing companies because it was the only way to get some royalties that were due to us after the label we were on folded. I'd suggest checking at ASCAP and BMI's website, or giving them a call to find out why and when it might be appropriate to join a PRO.

 

[earworm]

can you be a member of ASCAP and BMI at the same time?

 

[JaQsonA1]

i was wondering about bmi and ascap myself. you can only register with them if you know the date that your work will be published right? i havent even sent any songs out to anyone so of course i dont have a pulishing date. i just wanted to join so that part will be taken care of when i do. also i heard that they have gatherings etc that you can go too and meet people. did you all put a publishing date when you signed up or what did you do?

i thought if you were a publishing company you can sign up for both ascap and bmi but if you were just a producers or writer etc you could only be a member of one at a time. dont quote me on this.