·         Copyright musical compositions and songs

·         Secure recording rights of songs

·         Secure performance rights to broadcasting television and radio

·         Arrange for the manufacturing of sheet music

·         Secure song usage rights for advertising

·         Monitor Copyright infringement and facilitate applicable lawsuits

·         Register songs with ASCAP and BMI

·         Inform clients of changes in the industry regarding laws and standards

·         Promote new songs and compositions in the industry

·         Negotiate fees for licensing

·         Discovering new usages for licensing of song material

·         Explore international options for marketing of music

·         Promote positive legislation on behalf of the artist’s interests

·         Keep track of trends in all broadcast media so as to make suggestions for future songs

As can be seen by this above list, the music publisher plays a key role in the success of any songwriter or composer in the music business. If you are looking to break into the field, sometimes it’s not the best thing to simply find an agent and wait for a job opportunity. The music publisher, though similar to the role of an agent, is able to find opportunities that the average agent can not as they are involved with licensing.

Licensing of song usage is an incredible money earner as you can earn cash each time your song is played at sporting events, on the radio, on television and in movies. While some of these deals may not seem incredibly lucrative, think about how some people are able to write one hit song then live off of the licensing royalties for the rest of their lives.

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