The following information is regarding TuneCore's Publishing Administration service
What is a Performing Rights Organization (PRO)?
A PRO is an organization responsible for licensing songs in public forums, then collecting and paying performance royalties when those songs are performed publicly. The term ‘public performance’ includes live shows, and also encompasses play on streaming platforms, social media, radio, TV, music venues, in bars, gyms, restaurants and more.
A PRO and Publishing Administrator are separate entities that perform different tasks with a mutual goal of making sure songwriters are paid. Both play an integral role in the career of a songwriter. Please click here to learn more about the differences between a PRO and a publishing administrator.
Why should I affiliate with a PRO?
We require that you affiliate with a PRO as a writer because PROs account to both their writer members and publisher members separately. As part of TuneCore’s publishing service, TuneCore will account for and collect your publisher’s share of public performance royalties. Your PRO pays your writer's share of public performance royalties to you directly. In order to receive this income, you must affiliate as a writer with a PRO.
What if I am not affiliated with a PRO?
If you are not affiliated with a PRO as a songwriter, you will need to do so before you can access your TuneCore Publishing dashboard and begin submitting your works. You can join BMI here, signing up is $75 and only takes a few minutes. ASCAP is another option for songwriters in the US.
Please be advised that if you are not U.S.-based, you can affiliate with BMI or with the PRO/collection society in your territory.
How do I update my account with my CAE/IPI number?
Once you finish the affiliation process, your PRO will assign you your CAE/IPI number, which identifies you as a songwriter worldwide with the global rights societies. When you have your CAE/IPI number, please update your account so that your works can be properly registered.
To update your account:
- Log in to your TuneCore account
- Click on Publishing Administration in the menubar at the top
- Then select Publishing Dashboard from the dropdown menu
- Enter your PRO affiliation and unique CAE/IPI number in the space provided in that section and click "Save"
This will update your account and we can make sure any songs we register for you include this identifying number.
Please note: if you are already affiliated with a PRO other than BMI, DO NOT affiliate with BMI as your application will be denied. You are only able to be affiliated with one PRO performing society as a songwriter.