Quick Definition
Publishing rights refer to the intellectual property rights in the musical composition (lyrics, melody, arrangement), distinct from the recording. These rights allow the owner to earn revenue whenever the composition is sold, performed, or reproduced.
Publishing Rights Explained
Music publishing is often split into two "shares": the Writer's Share (50%) and the Publisher's Share (50%). Even if you are an independent songwriter without a publisher, you technically own both shares.
Publishing income comes from three main buckets: Performance Royalties (radio/live), Mechanical Royalties (streaming/sales), and Sync Licensing (fees for using the song in visual media).
Why It Matters
Publishing is often the longest-lasting revenue stream in music. A hit song can generate publishing income for decades (even centuries) as it is covered, sampled, and re-released. Ignoring publishing means leaving 50% of your potential revenue on the table.
Examples
When a contestant on *The Voice* sings "Hallelujah," they are creating a new Master, but the Publishing Royalties go to Leonard Cohen's estate.
How to Administer Publishing
You need to register with a PRO (like ASCAP/BMI) to collect performance royalties. To collect the publisher's share and mechanicals, you often need a Publishing Administrator (like Songtrust) or a dedicated deal with a Music Publisher.
Related Terms
See also: Master Recording, Mechanical Royalties, Performance Royalties, Split Sheet.
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