Time is running out for music creators to speak up about the future of their royalties. With just two weeks left before the April 11 deadline, ASCAP is urging songwriters, composers, and music publishers to submit their comments to the U.S. Copyright Office, which is currently reviewing the effectiveness of Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) like ASCAP.
Why This Matters
In February, the U.S. Copyright Office issued a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) to gather public input on the performance of PROs, which are critical to ensuring that music creators are paid fairly when their works are performed publicly. This NOI is a direct response to an aggressive lobbying effort by a group of music licensees—restaurants, bars, and live music venues—who want to pay songwriters less for the use of their music.
These licensees, through their Washington lobbyists, are pushing for changes to the PRO system that would drastically undercut songwriters’ rights, making it harder for creators to receive the royalties they deserve. ASCAP, along with other PROs, has long fought to protect fair pay for music creators by ensuring that music usage is properly tracked and compensated.
The Fight for Fair Pay
The new coalition of licensees claims that there are inefficiencies in how PROs distribute royalties, but this is simply not the case. The reality is that the information they’re requesting is already publicly available. ASCAP’s entire repertory is easily accessible on our website, and our methods for tracking over a trillion performances annually are both transparent and efficient.
What the lobbyists are really after is the opportunity to pay songwriters less. They want to undermine the system that guarantees fair compensation for the music creators whose works they profit from. ASCAP’s mission is clear: to ensure that songwriters are paid fairly and that every dollar we collect goes directly back to our members.
The ASCAP Difference
As a member-led, not-for-profit organization, ASCAP puts songwriters first. For every dollar we collect, 90 cents goes back to our members. Our use of advanced technology and a thorough tracking system ensures that royalties are distributed efficiently and accurately, making sure that creators get paid when their music is performed. Our payment rules are publicly available and have been approved by our Board of Directors, which consists of songwriters, composers, and music publishers elected by ASCAP members.
This is why it’s so important that the Copyright Office hears directly from creators like you. The comments we submit together will directly influence the future of how PROs operate and how music creators are compensated.
ASCAP is submitting formal comments on behalf of its over one million members, but we need you to take action too. Your input will demonstrate the importance of the PRO system in supporting music creators and preserving fair compensation for your work.
Don’t let licensees dictate the terms of your pay. Submit your comments today to help protect your royalties and the value of your music. Working together, we can ensure that your voice is heard and that music creators are defended against unfair practices.
The deadline is fast approaching—April 11 is the last day for submissions. Take a stand now and help ASCAP protect your livelihood. Your voice makes a difference!
Here are some exciting opportunities for musicians, songwriters, and composers to showcase their talents and win big. Make sure to mark these deadlines on your calendar:
4/3 – Enter the Next Music Star Competition
If you’ve got what it takes to shine on stage, now’s your chance! The Next Music Star Competition is offering free entry for aspiring artists. You could win $10,000 in cash and the opportunity to open for superstars at the legendary Wango Tango event. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your career. Enter now!
5/12 – Submission Deadline: 2025 World Soundtrack Awards Film Music Composition Contest
Calling all film composers under 36! This prestigious contest is your opportunity to shine on the global stage. With a €75 registration fee, you can submit your original compositions and have your work recognized by the film and music industry’s finest. Take your chance to make your mark in the world of film scoring.
5/30 – Enter the 30th Annual USA Songwriting Competition
This one’s for the songwriters! The 30th Annual USA Songwriting Competition is offering some incredible prizes, including radio airplay, a $50,000 top prize, music gear, and more. Whether you’re an up-and-coming artist or an established songwriter, this competition is a great way to gain exposure and win big.
Don’t miss these opportunities to advance your music career. Be sure to enter before the deadlines hit!
