What Is a Self-Publishing Entity?

A self-publishing entity is a structure that allows individual songwriters or composers to act as their own music publisher. Instead of assigning the publishing rights of their music to a third-party publishing company, creators set up their own publishing entity to directly manage the collection of publishing royalties.

This setup gives songwriters greater control over their royalties, including:

1. Public Performance Royalties: Collected by Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) or Collective Management Organizations (CMOs).

2. Mechanical Royalties: Earned from physical or digital reproductions of their music.

3. Synchronization Licenses: Fees from using music in TV, films, ads, and other media.

Why Creators Use a Self-Publishing Entity

1. Increased Revenue: Songwriters receive both the writer's share and the publisher's share of royalties.

2. Control: Full authority over licensing decisions and royalty management.

3. Transparency: Direct oversight of income streams.

4. Global Collection: The ability to collect royalties from international markets through affiliated organizations.

Steps to Set Up a Self-Publishing Entity

1. Decide on a Name: Choose a name for your publishing entity that aligns with your brand.

   • Example: "[Your Name] Music Publishing."

2. Register with a PRO or CMO: Apply as a music publisher with your local PRO (e.g., ASCAP, BMI, PRS, or SOCAN).

3. Understand Licensing: Learn the processes for issuing synchronization licenses and collecting mechanical royalties.

4. Register Your Works: Ensure all your compositions are accurately registered with relevant societies.

5. Affiliate Internationally: To collect royalties from global markets, affiliate your entity with international societies through reciprocal agreements.

Benefits of Setting Up a Self-Publishing Entity

• Dual Royalties: Earn both writer's and publisher's shares for your music.

• Licensing Authority: Retain the ability to negotiate and manage your own licenses.

• Financial Transparency: Direct control over royalty collection and reporting.

• Global Reach: Collect royalties from international societies for worldwide usage of your music.

FAQs About Self-Publishing Entities

1. Do I need to be signed with a PRO to set up a self-publishing entity?

   • Yes, you'll need to register as a music publisher with a PRO or CMO.

2. Can I register songs retroactively?

   • Yes, but the ability to claim past royalties depends on the rules of the PRO or CMO.

3. What is the difference between a self-publishing entity and working with a traditional publisher?

   • A self-publishing entity gives you full control and earnings, whereas a traditional publisher manages these aspects for a share of your royalties.