ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC: which one should I choose?

When an artist decides to sign up for their publishing, they usually want to pick the company that is best suited for them. You have the option of having your independent publishing or you can choose from some of the biggest companies to assist you. Those companies happen to be ASCAP (American Society of Composers Authors and Publishers), BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.), and SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers). What they all three have in common is that they protect the publishing rights of all artists included. Their differences however range from where the protect your publishing to how its protected.

ASCAP

More than likely, this publishing company is the most popular within its main membership located in the U.S. However, it is stated that they also cover publishing for artists worldwide; but their ties to the international market is not as strong as SESAC. ASCAP is the only publishing organization who's membership votes for those to be chosen on the board. This organization is representing for the artists and publishers who need coverage to protect their copyrights and work. The pay out system for ASCAP is considered to be more steady.

BMI

This company has a very striking similarity to ASCAP except for the fact that is mainly for broadcasters instead. They also are based out of the U.S. and represent different artists in various areas. However, their payout to the artists appears to more in the beginning and if an artist is receiving mainstream airplay, they can receive bonuses from that later on. The downside of it is that the money tends to dwindle after the money in the beginning is distributed in large amounts.

SESAC

Considered a company that was once limited to European and gospel music, SESAC has expanded its doors to genres that include rock, jazz, r&b, hip hop, and etc. SESAC, in comparison to ASCAP and BMI, is smaller but they focus on the issue of quality vs. quantity in terms of the artists that they deal with for their publishing. In comparison with ASCAP, it is the second oldest company that has been established for artists copyrights and publishing.

In conclusion, I would advise that any artist that would like to get their publishing through any of these companies is to look into further detail. Examine whether or not each company will be suitable for the artists based on how they treat their membership and distribute their finances. Also, each company should be further looked into as far protective rights to publishing for any artists.

Reference(s):

http://www.events-in-music.com/ascap-vs-bmi-vs-sesac.html

http://jagmmp.com/music_articles/should_i_join_ascap_bmi_or_sesac.html