The Truth About Music Publishing: How to Get Paid for Your Songs

You’ve got a great song - we know it. But in the music business, talent alone isn’t always enough. If you want to turn your music into a sustainable career, you need to understand how the industry works and, more importantly, how to make sure you get paid.

One word: music publishing.

If that phrase sounds intimidating, don’t worry - you’re not alone. A lot of independent artists and songwriters hear “music publishing company” and think, Whoa, that sounds like a huge step!. But trust us - one bold move can change everything for your career.

So, let’s break it down.

What Is a Music Publishing Company?

Think of a music publishing company as your behind-the-scenes team that makes sure you get paid whenever your music is used. They collect royalties, pitch your songs for TV shows and commercials, and protect your rights from shady business dealings.

Music publishing companies focus on composers and songwriters, not performers (that’s the job of record labels). So, if you write your own music, this is where things get interesting.

What Music Publishing Companies Do for You:

• Collect your royalties (mechanical, performance, and sync fees)

• Get your songs placed in movies, TV shows, and ads

• Protect your music from being used without permission

• Pitch your songs to other artists and producers

Translation: They handle the business side so you can focus on making music.

additional side effects to customer care.

Why Work with a Music Publishing Company?

Sure, you could manage everything yourself. But that would require you to be a lawyer, marketer, industry insider, and music expert - all at the same time.

Most indie artists don’t have that kind of time or expertise (if you do, mad respect!). But for everyone else, a music publishing company can be the game-changer you need.

Here’s how they help:

1. They Collect Your Money

Think about it - your music could be streaming all over the world, getting played on the radio, or featured in a YouTube video, and you might not even know it. Music publishing companies track all that down and make sure you get your cut.

2. They Open Doors You Didn’t Know Existed

Most artists don’t have global connections, but guess who does? Music publishing companies. They can pitch your music to brands, sync agents, and record labels, helping you reach audiences you didn’t even know existed.

3. They Get Your Music in Movies & Ads

Ever had a song stuck in your head from a commercial or a movie? Imagine if that song was yours. A good music publishing company can make that happen.

4. They Protect Your Rights

With the rise of digital music, it’s easier than ever for people to use your work without permission. Music publishing companies make sure you get paid for every stream, play, and sync placemen

Types of Music Publishing Deals

Not all publishing deals are the same. Here are the three most common types:

Full Publishing Deal

• The publisher owns 100% of your publishing rights.

• You get an upfront payment and full business support.

• Downside? You no longer own your songs.

Co-Publishing Deal

• You split ownership with the publisher (usually 50/50).

• You still get business support but keep some control.

• You’ll have to split earnings with the publisher.

Administration Deal

• You keep 100% of your rights.

• The publisher just collects royalties and handles paperwork.

• You get less support with promotion.

How to Choose the Right Music Publishing Company

Not all publishers are created equal. Before signing anything, here’s what to check:

1. Artist Reputation – What do other artists say about them?

2. Contract Details – What rights are you giving up, and for how long?

3. Earnings Breakdown – How much of your earnings do they take?

4. Indie Artist Support – Do they focus on helping independent musicians?

5. Global Reach – Can they collect royalties worldwide?

DIY Music Publishing: Is It Worth It?

Yes, you can publish your own music - but should you?

The pros:

✅ You keep 100% of your rights 

✅ You have complete creative control 

✅ You earn all the money

The cons:

❌ It takes a LOT of time 

❌ You have to learn music law and marketing 

❌ You don’t have industry connections to land big deals

If you have the time and knowledge, go for it! But if you want to focus on making music while still getting paid, a music publishing company is worth considering.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the power of music publishing, the real question is: Are you ready to take your career to the next level?

✅ Explore your publishing options
✅ Learn smart ways to promote your music
✅ Make sure your music doesn’t just exist - make it thrive

Want to get more exposure for your music? Playlistopia can help! We specialize in Spotify playlist placements and strategic promotion to help indie artists like you get heard. Let’s make your music work for you!