The Challenges of International Music Publishing Collection

For independent artists, producers, and songwriters, ensuring that you receive royalties from your music can be challenging—especially on an international scale. While music is a universal language, royalty collection systems are anything but. Navigating the complexities of global royalty collection often requires expertise, persistence, and connections.

This blog will highlight the common challenges of collecting international royalties and explain how partnering with a global publishing administrator like Elizabeth Music Group (EMG) can simplify the process and maximize your income.

The Common Challenges of International Royalty Collection

1. Complex Global Systems

   • Many country has its own Performing Rights Organization (PRO) or Collective Management Organization (CMO), each with different policies, systems, and payout schedules. Managing all of these pay sources can be quite challenging for someone to do without a team.

   • Understanding these differences and ensuring your music is registered in each relevant territory can be overwhelming.

2. Metadata Errors

   • Royalty payments depend on accurate metadata. Errors in song titles, writer splits, or registrations can lead to delays or lost income.

   • Small mistakes in your metadata can cause your royalties to sit in a collection society’s "black box" account, where unidentified funds accumulate. Typically, income in the “black box” will be paid out to the top companies in music based on market share.

3. Lack of Transparency

   • Many artists struggle to track their earnings due to opaque reporting systems used by some international organizations.

   • Without clear statements, it’s difficult to verify whether you’re receiving your fair share.

4. Delayed Payments

   • International royalty payments often take multiple quarters or even years to be processed and distributed.

5. Unclaimed Royalties

   • If your music is played in a country where it’s not properly registered, you may miss out on royalties entirely.

   • Unclaimed royalties often return to the collection society or are redistributed, meaning you lose out on what you’re owed.

6. Language and Legal Barriers

   • Dealing with multiple international organizations often means navigating different languages and legal systems.

   • Understanding contracts and agreements in foreign languages can create additional hurdles.

How a Global Publishing Administrator Like EMG Can Help

1. Worldwide Registration

   • EMG ensures your music is registered with all relevant PROs and CMOs worldwide. This comprehensive approach ensures you’re eligible to collect royalties in every territory where your music is used.

2. Accurate Metadata Management

   • EMG works with creators to correct and maintain accurate metadata for each song.

   • This reduces the risk of errors that could result in unclaimed royalties.

3. Advanced Tracking Systems

   • EMG uses state-of-the-art technology to monitor when and where your music is played or streamed.

   • These tracking systems provide detailed reports, offering transparency into your earnings and helping you understand your music’s global reach.

4. Education and Empowerment

   • EMG provides resources to help artists understand the royalty collection process, empowering them to make informed decisions about their careers.

   • Educational tools include guides, articles, informative videos, and one-on-one consultations offered to anyone signed at Elizabeth Music Group.

Why Choose Elizabeth Music Group?

Partnering with a global publishing administrator like EMG offers creators peace of mind and the ability to focus on their artistry. Here’s what sets EMG apart:

• Transparency: Clear and detailed reporting so you know where your money comes from.

• Global Reach: Extensive relationships with collection societies across the world.

• Tailored Support: A team dedicated to understanding your unique needs and maximizing your income.

• Community Access: Exclusive resources, sync briefs, and networking opportunities through EMG’s exclusive discord community.

Final Thoughts

International royalty collection can be daunting, but it’s a vital part of maximizing your income as a music creator. By partnering with a global publishing administrator like Elizabeth Music Group, you can overcome the challenges, recover unclaimed royalties, and ensure you’re fairly compensated for your work. Whether you’re an independent artist, producer, or songwriter, EMG’s expertise and global network are invaluable assets in navigating the complexities of the music industry.