A Modern Guide to Reclaiming Ownership and Control in the Music Business
Learn how artists can restore their music publishing rights in today’s industry. Discover legal strategies, negotiation tips, and resources for reclaiming your creative power and royalties.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why Publishing Rights Matter
- Understanding Music Publishing and Ownership
- How Artists Lose Their Rights
- Legal Pathways to Reclaiming Your Publishing
- Negotiating with Labels and Publishers
- DIY Publishing: Going Independent
- Protecting Your Rights Moving Forward
- Resource List
1. Introduction: Why Publishing Rights Matter
Publishing rights are the backbone of an artist’s income and creative control. They determine who gets paid when your music is played, streamed, or licensed. For many artists, losing these rights means losing both money and power. But in today’s industry, it’s possible to take them back.
2. Understanding Music Publishing and Ownership
Music publishing covers the rights to your compositions—lyrics and melodies, not just recordings. Owning your publishing means you control how your songs are used and collect royalties from every play, cover, or sync placement.
- Types of Rights: Mechanical, performance, sync, and print rights.
- PROs: Organizations like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC collect royalties on your behalf.
3. How Artists Lose Their Rights
Many artists sign away publishing rights early in their careers, often in exchange for advances or exposure. Common pitfalls include:
- Unfavorable Contracts: Signing without legal advice.
- Work-for-Hire Agreements: Giving up ownership for a flat fee.
- Lack of Knowledge: Not understanding the long-term impact of publishing deals.
4. Legal Pathways to Reclaiming Your Publishing
It’s not always easy, but there are ways to restore your rights:
- Contract Expiry: Some deals have a set term. Once it ends, rights can revert to you.
- Termination Rights: In the US, artists can reclaim copyrights after 35 years (per the Copyright Act).
- Negotiation: Renegotiate with publishers or labels, especially if your catalog has grown in value.
- Legal Action: If your contract was unfair or breached, consult a music attorney.
Pro Tip:
Always consult a qualified entertainment lawyer before taking action.
5. Negotiating with Labels and Publishers
If you’re still under contract, negotiation is key.
- Leverage: If your music is generating revenue, you have bargaining power.
- Transparency: Request detailed royalty statements and audit rights.
- Partial Buybacks: Offer to buy back your rights or split future royalties.
6. DIY Publishing: Going Independent
Many artists are choosing to self-publish, keeping 100% of their rights and royalties.
- Register Your Songs: Sign up with a PRO and register every composition.
- Use Publishing Admin Services: Companies like Songtrust and TuneCore Publishing help collect global royalties.
- Direct Licensing: Handle sync deals and placements yourself or with a trusted manager.
7. Protecting Your Rights Moving Forward
- Read Every Contract: Don’t sign anything without legal review.
- Educate Yourself: Stay up to date on music business trends and laws.
- Build a Team: A good lawyer and manager are worth their weight in gold.
8. Resource List
- Songtrust – Publishing administration
- TuneCore Publishing – Publishing admin
- ASCAP – Performance rights organization
- BMI – Performance rights organization
- SESAC – Performance rights organization
- Music Law Contracts Explained
- Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts – Legal help for artists
- Copyright Office Termination Rights
Final Thoughts
Restoring your music publishing rights is about more than money—it’s about creative freedom and legacy. With the right knowledge, legal support, and determination, you can reclaim what’s yours and build a future on your own terms.
