ASCAP vs BMI vs SESAC
How to choose the right performing rights organization and what each PRO offers
ASCAP vs BMI vs SESAC
Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) are essential for any songwriter or publisher. They collect performance royalties—money generated when your songs are performed publicly—and distribute them to rights holders. The three major PROs in the US are ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your revenue and support.
What Do PROs Do?
A PRO licenses the rights to perform your musical compositions and collects fees from venues, broadcasters, streaming platforms, and other entities that publicly perform music. Without a PRO, you'd have to individually negotiate licenses with every bar, radio station, and streaming service—an impossible task.
PROs then distribute these collected royalties to songwriters and publishers according to performance data and established agreements. They also maintain registries of songs and handle dispute resolution.
ASCAP
American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is the oldest PRO in the US, founded in 1914.
Strengths: ASCAP is known for excellent customer service and a creator-friendly approach. Writers maintain ownership of their compositions and have voting rights in the organization. ASCAP offers educational resources, networking events, and advocacy for songwriters' interests. Their payment system is transparent, and they've invested in digital tracking technology.
Weaknesses: Some members report higher fees (though all three PROs charge similar annual fees). The organization's governance structure, while democratic, means changes happen slower than at for-profit organizations.
Best For: Songwriters who value community, transparency, and direct involvement in the organization's direction. Artists concerned about maintaining creative control and artists who appreciate proactive support and education.
BMI
Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) was founded in 1939 and operates as a for-profit entity, though with nonprofit governance.
Strengths: BMI has historically been competitive on fees and offers competitive contract terms. The organization has a strong international presence and reputation with broadcasters. BMI's website and tools are user-friendly, and they're responsive to technological changes in the music industry.
Weaknesses: BMI operates as a for-profit, which some view as misaligned with creators' interests. Their governance structure gives members less direct control than ASCAP.
Best For: Songwriters seeking a business-focused organization with efficient operations and strong broadcaster relationships. Artists comfortable with a for-profit structure who want straightforward administration.
SESAC
Society of European Stage Authors and Composers (SESAC) began as a European organization but now operates globally, including the US.
Strengths: SESAC is the smallest PRO and prides itself on personalized service. They offer competitive royalty rates and have been aggressive in developing technology solutions for members. SESAC also operates SoundExchange, a complementary digital performance rights organization.
Weaknesses: Limited membership compared to ASCAP and BMI means fewer industry connections for some songwriters. Historically less transparent in payment calculations than competitors, though this has improved.
Best For: Independent songwriters seeking boutique-level service and those in genres underserved by larger PROs. Artists comfortable with a smaller organization for the sake of personalized attention.
Key Differences
Membership Requirements: All three allow similar compositions, but some genres or regions may find better fit with specific PROs.
Licensing: ASCAP and BMI license similar entities—radio, TV, venues, streaming—but each negotiates slightly different rates. SESAC's licensing deals have historically been smaller, affecting total royalty distributions.
Payment Methods: All three distribute quarterly or monthly, but technology and reporting differ slightly.
Support & Resources: ASCAP emphasizes education; BMI emphasizes efficiency; SESAC emphasizes personalization.
Dual Registration Considerations
You cannot be a member of multiple PROs simultaneously—you must choose one. However, you can change organizations, though with waiting periods and potential complications with existing registrations.
Some songwriters establish separate publishing entities to register with different PROs for different compositions, but this is complex and not recommended for beginners.
Making Your Choice
Evaluate Based On:
- Your genre: Some PROs have stronger collections in specific genres.
- Venue types: Local venues, streaming, or broadcast? Each PRO has strengths.
- Support needs: Do you value education, efficiency, or personalized service?
- International presence: If you work globally, research each PRO's international reach.
Interview Representatives: Each PRO offers consultations. Ask specific questions about their royalty distributions, payment history, and support for your genre.
Check the Numbers: Request historical royalty data for similar artists in your genre. Total payouts vary, and real data beats marketing claims.
Conclusion
ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC all provide essential services, but they differ in philosophy, size, and focus. Your choice should align with your values, genre, and career stage. Switching organizations is possible but involves administrative work, so research thoroughly before committing. Regardless of choice, PRO membership is non-negotiable for songwriters—it's the foundation of sustainable income from your compositions.