What are the 5 functions of a Music Publisher?

Acquisition

A music publisher will build a client base of songwriters and acquire their compositions. The word ‘acquisition’ doesn’t cover other aspects of a publisher's role, particularly when some bigger publishers will assist in developing a songwriters craft, introduce them to other writers and other forms of creative development.

Exploitation

The word ‘exploitation’ often comes with a negative association, but in this context, it simply means ways in which a music publisher can find a use for songs. This can be putting songs forward for artists to record, a film soundtrack, a tv advert, or other forms of music use.

Administration

One key role of a publisher is taking care of the administration duties for their clients. Registering your compositions with collection societies, taking care of licensing deals with music users and a range of other administrative duties.

Collection - (admin depart)

Most of the revenue that is generated through the exploitation of songs goes through the music publisher before the rest is paid to the songwriter. There are some or a percentage of royalties, such as performance royalties that are paid directly to the songwriter, but most are collected by the publisher. Of course – timely collection and payment of royalties is an extremely important part of the role!

Protection ((admin depart)

Protection of rights is extremely important and music publishers play a vital role in making sure that anyone that wants to use a composition that is controlled by them, needs to be officially licensed and users adhere to the formal, legal procedures. Along with CMO’s, publishers engage with industry representatives and organisations, such as the MPA and UK Music, to ensure that copyright law is fit for modern-day music consumption.