Music streaming services have become a popular way for listeners to access and enjoy a wide variety of songs and albums. However, for artists and musicians, the process of getting paid royalties for their work on these platforms can be a bit more complicated. In this article, we will take a look at how an artist can ensure they are properly compensated for their music on streaming services.
First, it is important to understand that streaming services typically pay royalties to rights holders, rather than directly to the artists themselves. This means that in order to receive royalties, an artist must have their music registered with a performing rights organization (PRO) or a mechanical rights organization (MRO). These organizations collect royalties on behalf of artists and distribute them to the appropriate rights holders.
To register with a PRO or MRO, an artist must typically provide proof of copyright ownership for their music, such as a copy of the original recording or songwriting contracts. Once registered, the artist’s music will be added to a database that is regularly checked by streaming services to determine who should be paid royalties.
Once registered, an artist can then track their streaming royalties through their PRO or MRO. These organizations will provide regular statements showing the artist how many plays their music has received on various streaming platforms and how much they have earned in royalties.
While registering with a PRO or MRO is a crucial step in getting paid royalties, it is also important for artists to be aware of the different royalty rates offered by different streaming services. Some services, such as Spotify and Apple Music, offer a per-stream rate, which means that the artist is paid a small amount for each play of their music. Other services, such as Tidal and Pandora, offer a revenue-sharing model, in which the artist receives a percentage of the service’s overall revenue.
It’s also important for an artist to keep track of their rights, and to be aware of when and where their music is being used. This can be done through distribution services, which can help an artist to monitor usage and ensure they are getting paid for all uses of their music.
In addition to tracking royalties, artists can also take steps to promote their music on streaming platforms and increase their chances of getting paid. This can include creating a strong presence on social media, collaborating with other artists, and releasing new music regularly.
In conclusion, while getting paid royalties on music streaming services can be a bit complicated, it is important for artists to be aware of the process and take the necessary steps to ensure they are properly compensated for their work. This includes registering with a PRO or MRO, tracking streaming royalties, and promoting their music on the platforms. By taking these steps, artists can ensure they are getting paid for their hard work and continue to create and share their music with the world.
