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Not every registration is required for every artist — eligibility and needs depend on your country, your role and how your music is used. Use this as a map, not a mandate. This is general education, not legal advice.

• Investigate joining an appropriate performing rights organization

  PROs collect performance royalties for songwriters and publishers. Which one fits depends on your country.

  Official info

• Understand SoundExchange eligibility

  In the US, SoundExchange collects digital performance royalties for sound recordings. Eligibility depends on how and where your music is used.

  Official info

• Understand publishing and mechanical royalties

  Mechanical royalties are generated when compositions are reproduced. In the US, The MLC administers streaming mechanicals.

  Official info

• Understand music distribution

  Distributors deliver your releases to streaming services. Compare fees, splits and rights retained.

• Review song ownership and split documentation

  Agree on and document splits with collaborators before release.

• Understand copyright registration

  Registration rules vary by country. In the US, see the Copyright Office.

  Official info

• Organize recording and composition metadata

  Credits, ISRCs, ISWCs and contributor info keep royalties traceable.