When music is used, different types of publishing royalties can be generated. The two main ones relevant here are:
(1) Performance royalties – generated when music is performed publicly, such as on radio, TV, in clubs, at festivals, or on streaming platforms
(2) Mechanical royalties – generated when music is reproduced, such as through streams, downloads, or physical formats like vinyl and CDs
These royalties are collected by organizations often referred to as collection societies.
What is a PRO?
A PRO (Performing Rights Organisation) collects performance royalties on behalf of songwriters and publishers. This includes uses such as radio, TV, clubs, festival venues, restaurants, and some digital services.
Example PROs include:
ASCAP and BMI in the USA
PRS in the UK
What is a CMO?
A CMO (Collective Management Organisation) is a broader type of collection society. In many countries, a CMO collects both performance and mechanical royalties.
Examples include:
GEMA in Germany
SACEM in France
One organisation vs separate organisations
This simply depends on the country. In some countries, one organisation collects both performance and mechanical royalties. In other countries, these royalties are collected by separate organisations.
For example:
In Germany, GEMA collects both
In the USA, ASCAP / BMI collect performance royalties, while the MLC collects mechanical royalties separately
What is an IPI number?
When a songwriter joins a PRO or CMO, they are usually assigned an IPI number.
This is an important songwriter identifier used for publishing administration and royalty collection.
Mechanical-only collection societies do not assign IPI numbers. That is why the most important info in this context is usually your PRO or CMO affiliation, since that is where your songwriter identity is formally registered.
Have questions, or interested in exploring publishing with Proton?
Fill out the application form here, or reach out to publishing@protonradio.com with some context about your current setup and any questions you may have. :)