Are you a musician or songwriter looking to protect your music rights and earn royalties for your work? Then you’ve likely come across two major performing rights organizations – ASCAP and BMI. In this article, we’ll compare ASCAP vs BMI and help you understand which one is the right choice for you.
ASCAP and BMI are two of the biggest performing rights organizations in the world. ASCAP stands for American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, while BMI stands for Broadcast Music, Inc. Both organizations are responsible for collecting royalties on behalf of their members for the public performance of their music.
ASCAP was founded in 1914 and is headquartered in New York City. It represents over 700,000 songwriters, composers, and music publishers and has a repertoire of over 11.5 million musical works. BMI, on the other hand, was founded in 1939 and is also headquartered in New York City. It represents over 1.1 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers and has a repertoire of over 17 million musical works.
While both organizations serve the same purpose, there are some key differences between ASCAP and BMI. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the similarities and differences between the two organizations, as well as the pros and cons of each.
Define Ascap
ASCAP, or the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, is a performing rights organization that represents over 790,000 songwriters, composers, and music publishers. It was founded in 1914 and is headquartered in New York City. ASCAP’s main function is to protect the rights of its members by licensing their music and collecting royalties on their behalf.
Define Bmi
BMI, or Broadcast Music, Inc., is another performing rights organization that represents over 1.1 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers. It was founded in 1939 and is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. BMI’s main function is also to protect the rights of its members by licensing their music and collecting royalties on their behalf.
Both ASCAP and BMI are non-profit organizations that operate on a similar model. They collect licensing fees from businesses that use music publicly, such as radio stations, restaurants, and concert venues, and then distribute those fees as royalties to their members.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When discussing music publishing and royalty collection, two names often come up: ASCAP and BMI. Both organizations are responsible for collecting and distributing royalties to songwriters and publishers, but they have their differences. To better understand these differences, it’s important to know how to properly use the words ASCAP and BMI in a sentence.
How To Use Ascap In A Sentence
ASCAP stands for the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. It is a performance rights organization that represents over 700,000 songwriters, composers, and music publishers. When using ASCAP in a sentence, it is important to remember that it is an acronym and should be capitalized.
Example: The songwriter is a member of ASCAP and receives royalties when their music is played on the radio.
ASCAP also has a database of over 11 million songs that it licenses to businesses and organizations for public performances. When referring to this database, it is important to use the proper terminology.
Example: The restaurant had to pay a licensing fee to ASCAP in order to play music from their database.
How To Use Bmi In A Sentence
BMI stands for Broadcast Music, Inc. It is also a performance rights organization that represents over 1 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers. Like ASCAP, it is important to remember that BMI is an acronym and should be capitalized when used in a sentence.
Example: The songwriter is a member of BMI and receives royalties when their music is played on streaming services.
BMI also has a database of over 15 million songs that it licenses to businesses and organizations for public performances. When referring to this database, it is important to use the proper terminology.
Example: The gym had to pay a licensing fee to BMI in order to play music from their database during workout classes.
Properly using ASCAP and BMI in a sentence is important when discussing music publishing and royalty collection. Remember to capitalize both acronyms and use the proper terminology when referring to their respective song databases.
More Examples Of Ascap & Bmi Used In Sentences
Ascap and BMI are two of the most prominent performing rights organizations in the music industry. Here are some examples of how to use these acronyms in a sentence.
Examples Of Using Ascap In A Sentence
- Artists who register with ASCAP can receive royalties for their music.
- ASCAP ensures that songwriters get paid for the public performance of their music.
- Many popular musicians are members of ASCAP.
- ASCAP collects licensing fees from businesses that use music in their operations.
- The ASCAP database contains millions of copyrighted songs.
- ASCAP protects the rights of its members by monitoring music usage and pursuing legal action against copyright infringers.
- ASCAP’s licensing fees are based on the type of business and the way the music is used.
- ASCAP is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1914.
- ASCAP has a team of licensing experts who can help businesses navigate the licensing process.
- ASCAP’s mission is to promote and protect the interests of songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
Examples Of Using Bmi In A Sentence
- Many songwriters choose to register with BMI to receive royalties for their music.
- BMI represents over 1 million songwriters and composers.
- BMI collects licensing fees from businesses that use music in their operations.
- BMI’s licensing fees are based on the type of business and the way the music is used.
- BMI’s database contains over 17 million musical works.
- BMI provides a range of services to its members, including legal assistance and career development.
- Many popular musicians are members of BMI.
- BMI was founded in 1939 and is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
- BMI protects the rights of its members by monitoring music usage and pursuing legal action against copyright infringers.
- BMI’s mission is to support and promote the value of music and its creators.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to music licensing, many people tend to use ASCAP and BMI interchangeably. However, doing so can lead to some common mistakes that can be costly in the long run. In this section, we will highlight some of these mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them.
Using The Wrong Pro
One of the most common mistakes people make is using the wrong performing rights organization (PRO). ASCAP and BMI are two of the largest PROs in the United States, but they are not the only ones. Other PROs include SESAC and Global Music Rights.
Using the wrong PRO can result in not receiving royalties for your music or even facing legal action. It’s important to do your research and determine which PRO is the best fit for you and your music.
Assuming All Pros Are The Same
Another mistake people make is assuming that all PROs are the same. While they all offer similar services, there are differences in how they operate and the types of music they represent.
For example, ASCAP is known for representing a wide range of music genres, while BMI is known for representing more popular music. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when choosing a PRO.
Not Registering Your Music Properly
A common mistake that can cost you money is not registering your music properly. Both ASCAP and BMI require you to register your music with them in order to receive royalties.
It’s important to make sure you register your music with the correct PRO and provide accurate information about your music, such as the title, writer, and publisher. Failing to do so can result in lost royalties or legal issues.
Not Understanding The Terms Of Your Agreement
Finally, another mistake people make is not fully understanding the terms of their agreement with their chosen PRO. It’s important to read and understand the terms of your agreement, including how royalties are calculated and distributed.
Additionally, make sure you are aware of any fees or commissions that the PRO may charge. Understanding these terms can help you make informed decisions about your music licensing and ensure that you are being fairly compensated for your work.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you are using ASCAP and BMI correctly and maximizing your earnings from your music. Remember to do your research, register your music properly, and understand the terms of your agreement with your chosen PRO.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between ASCAP and BMI, context matters. The decision ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual or organization using the service. Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between ASCAP and BMI might change:
Music Genre
The type of music being created or performed can play a role in the choice between ASCAP and BMI. For example, BMI has a strong presence in the country music scene, while ASCAP has a larger share of the market in pop and rock music. If you are a songwriter or performer in a specific genre, it may be beneficial to choose the PRO that caters more to that genre.
Geographic Location
The location of the music being performed or broadcasted can also be a factor in the decision between ASCAP and BMI. ASCAP has a larger international presence, while BMI primarily focuses on the United States. If you are a musician or business operating outside of the US, ASCAP may be the better choice for you.
Business Type
The type of business using the PRO service can also impact the decision between ASCAP and BMI. For example, BMI may be a better fit for smaller businesses or venues due to their lower licensing fees. On the other hand, ASCAP may be a better choice for larger businesses or events, as they have a larger repertoire and more established relationships with major music publishers.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision between ASCAP and BMI may come down to personal preference. Some musicians or businesses may have had positive experiences with one PRO over the other, or may prefer the user interface and features of one service. It is important to do your own research and choose the PRO that best fits your specific needs and preferences.
Exceptions To The Rules
While ASCAP and BMI have strict regulations for the use of their licensed music, there are some exceptions where these rules may not apply. It is important to understand these exceptions to avoid any legal issues when using music in your business or creative project.
Public Domain Music
Public domain music is not subject to ASCAP or BMI licensing, as the copyright has expired or was never established. This means that you can use this music freely without having to obtain any licenses or pay any fees.
Examples of public domain music include:
- Classical music written before 1923
- Folk songs and traditional music
- National anthems
Original Music
If you have created your own original music, you do not need to obtain licenses from ASCAP or BMI. However, it is important to register your music with the appropriate copyright office to protect your work.
Small Performances
If you are hosting a small performance, such as a school play or a community event, you may not need to obtain licenses from ASCAP or BMI. The rules for this exception vary depending on the size of the audience and the type of venue, so it is important to check with ASCAP or BMI to determine if your event qualifies.
Non-commercial Use
If you are using music for personal or non-commercial purposes, you may not need to obtain licenses from ASCAP or BMI. This includes using music in home videos or personal projects that will not be distributed or sold.
It is important to note that these exceptions may not apply in all cases, and it is always best to consult with ASCAP or BMI to ensure that you are using music legally and ethically.
Practice Exercises
Understanding and using ASCAP and BMI in sentences can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, it can become second nature. Here are some practice exercises to help improve your understanding and use of these organizations.
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Fill in the blank with either ASCAP or BMI:
- _________ is a performing rights organization that represents songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
- _________ was founded in 1914 and is the oldest performing rights organization in the United States.
- _________ collects royalties for the public performance of musical works.
- _________ has a database of more than 10 million musical works.
Answer Key:
- ASCAP
- ASCAP
- BMI
- ASCAP
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct answer:
- Which organization was founded first?
- a. ASCAP
- b. BMI
- c. They were founded at the same time
- a. ASCAP
- b. BMI
- c. Both ASCAP and BMI
- a. ASCAP
- b. BMI
- c. Both ASCAP and BMI
- a. ASCAP
- b. BMI
- c. Both ASCAP and BMI
Answer Key:
- a
- c
- c
- c
By practicing with exercises like these, you can improve your understanding and use of ASCAP and BMI in your writing and conversations about music.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the battle between ASCAP and BMI is a never-ending one, with both organizations striving to protect the rights of their members. However, it is important to note that while both organizations perform similar functions, there are some key differences that set them apart.
Key Takeaways
- ASCAP and BMI are both Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) that represent songwriters, composers, and publishers.
- ASCAP has a larger membership base than BMI and represents a wider variety of music genres.
- BMI is known for its user-friendly technology and its ability to provide detailed analytics to its members.
- Both organizations work to protect the rights of their members and ensure that they are fairly compensated for their work.
As a writer or musician, it is important to understand the role that these organizations play in the music industry. By registering your work with a PRO, you can protect your intellectual property and ensure that you are receiving the royalties that you deserve.
Finally, it is important to continue learning about grammar and language use to ensure that your work is of the highest quality. By honing your writing skills, you can increase your chances of success in the competitive world of music and publishing.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.