The Biggest Hurdle in Music Royalty Collection: Global Collection Challenges
Each year, billions of dollars in music royalties go unclaimed. Why? The most common culprits are incorrect metadata, missing registrations, and a lack of awareness about global royalty collection. Recently, we asked our community which of these challenges they struggle with the most, and the top response was global royalty collection.
Why Global Royalty Collection Is So Challenging
For many artists, songwriters, and rights holders, understanding royalty collection at a local level can already be challenging. With international factors, the process becomes even more challenging to manage. Here’s why:
Multiple Rights Organizations – Every country has its own Performance Rights Organizations (PROs), Collective Management Organizations (CMOs), and digital licensing bodies. Ensuring that your work is registered with the right ones is crucial but often overlooked.
Different Reporting Standards – Royalty reporting isn’t standardized worldwide. Some organizations report quarterly, others semi-annually, and the methods for tracking and distributing funds vary significantly.
Lack of Visibility – Many creators don’t even know they’re owed international royalties. If a song is played, streamed, or downloaded in another country, royalties may be generated, but without proper registrations, they remain unclaimed.
Metadata Discrepancies – Even if you’re registered with the right organizations, inconsistent or incorrect metadata can prevent payouts from reaching you.
How to Overcome Global Collection Challenges
Register with International PROs & CMOs – If your music is being played globally, you need to make sure you’re registered with the appropriate collection societies in each region where you have listeners.
Use a Royalty Administration Service – Companies specializing in royalty accounting and global collections can help you track down unpaid royalties and ensure you’re properly registered worldwide.
Ensure Your Metadata is Correct – Accurate song titles, ISRCs, ISWCs, writer splits, and publisher details all play a role in ensuring royalties are collected and paid correctly.
Stay Informed & Proactive – Keep track of where your music is being played, and don’t assume that just because you’re registered in one country, your royalties will be collected everywhere.
Tips to Maximize Your Global Royalty Collection
Work with a Global Publishing Administrator – A publishing administrator with a global reach can help collect mechanical and performance royalties on your behalf.
Register Your Works with Multiple Collection Societies – Depending on your distribution reach, you may need to register with multiple PROs and CMOs.
Monitor Your Streaming & Airplay Data – Use analytics tools to see where your music is being played and verify that you’re collecting royalties from those regions.
Double-Check Your Splits and Agreements – Ensure that all songwriter and publisher splits are correct and updated across all platforms.
Audit Your Royalties Regularly – Keep an eye on your royalty statements to identify discrepancies or missing payments.
Leverage Digital Distribution & Licensing Services – Services that handle licensing and distribution can also assist in ensuring proper metadata and collection processes.
Music is global, and so is royalty collection. The good news? With the right knowledge and systems in place, you can ensure you’re not leaving money on the table. If global royalty collection is a challenge for you, now is the time to take action because every play, stream, and performance counts.
How Royalty Solutions Corp Can Help
At Royalty Solutions Corp, we understand the complexities of global royalty collection. Our dedicated team offers personalized services tailored to artists, songwriters, labels, and publishers, ensuring your royalties are tracked accurately and collected on time. With in-depth expertise in metadata management, international registrations, and comprehensive royalty accounting, we take care of the details while you focus on your music.
Partner with us to simplify your global royalty collection and help you maximize your earnings across all markets!