Register with a P.R.O.A Performance Rights Organization (P.R.O.) collects performance royalties when your music is played on radio, TV, streaming services, live venues, and other public performances. Joining a P.R.O. is essential for collecting these royalties.
Important
You can only join one P.R.O. at a time. Choose carefully based on your needs and genre.
ASCAP
- • Largest P.R.O. in the US
- • Strong in pop, rock, country
- • Member-owned non-profit
- • Quarterly distributions
- • Free to join
BMI
- • Second largest P.R.O.
- • Strong in R&B, hip-hop, jazz
- • For-profit organization
- • Quarterly distributions
- • Free to join
SESAC
- • Smallest, most selective
- • Invitation-only membership
- • Higher per-play rates
- • Monthly distributions
- • More personalized service
Step 1: Choose Your P.R.O.
Research each P.R.O.'s strengths, payment schedules, and member benefits. Consider your music genre and career goals.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- • Legal name and contact information
- • Social Security Number or Tax ID
- • List of your original compositions
- • Publishing company info (if applicable)
Step 3: Complete the Application
Fill out the online membership application. You'll need to provide personal information and details about your music catalog.
Step 4: Start Registering Songs
Once approved, immediately start registering your songs to begin collecting royalties for future performances.
Register Your Songs
Add all your original compositions to your P.R.O. account with complete metadata.
Monitor Your Royalties
Check your account regularly for performance data and royalty payments.
Update Your Catalog
Register new songs as you create them to ensure continuous royalty collection.
Promote Your Music
The more your music is performed publicly, the more royalties you'll collect.