Have you ever wanted to be able to write your own music but don’t know where to start? You might be surprised at how easy it can be! One of the first steps towards becoming a successful musician is knowing; what is music publishing and then finding the right publishing company that will represent you and your music. A publishing company will help to market, promote, and distribute your music for you, so that you can focus on doing what you do best – making great music!
Step 1 – Research
In order to understand what is a music publishing and music publishing royalties, you need to first determine whether or not you’re looking for an online production music company (aka stock music library) or a traditional sheet music publisher. There are some significant differences between these two kinds of publishers: whereas sheet music publishers require original compositions and are open only to established songwriters, online production companies allow anyone to sell their licensed production tracks online.
Step 2 – Know What’s Important to You
Before you begin searching for music publishing companies, you need to figure out what’s important to you. Maybe it’s important that your company offers fast turnarounds or extensive product options, or good customer service. You can use these requirements to narrow down your search and find exactly what you’re looking for in online production music.
Step 3 – Choose Your Publisher Wisely
If you decide to go with an online production music company for your music publishing, make sure you choose one that will help you achieve your goals. Look into their business model and determine whether or not they can get your work out to potential clients. The best way to accomplish this is by visiting their website and listening to their available tracks. If they have access to a large number of songs, you should have access too!
Step 4 – Learn the Process
Finding a publisher means understanding how to get your songs published in a way that will lead to you getting paid for what you’ve written. This can be done through physical or online production music sites, as well as through independent licensing companies. Whatever route you choose, knowing what it is going to take to pitch your songs (and get them licensed) and learning how each side (publishers/songwriters) operates and what they need from you is essential.
Step 5 – Finalize and Submit Your Song(s)
Now that you have written your song and completed all five steps submit your work to one or more publishers. Keep in mind not every publisher will accept every song. There are no guarantees they will accept yours, but there is an excellent chance if you have followed these steps correctly! Keep in mind as well it can take some time for a publisher to respond to your submission, but try not to get discouraged.
Step 6 – Promote Yourself and Work Hard
The best way to get your music out into your ears is by promoting yourself as an artist and working hard. The more shows you play, products you sell, or blogs you write for – it’s all about making that connection. I don’t care if your songs are on iTunes, Spotify, or Soundcloud – if people aren’t hearing them, then they won’t matter. Your job is to push yourself, so people notice and then buy into what you are doing because they like what they see and hear!
