ASCAP or BMI?

[richiebee]

I have to choose a US songwriting representative as part of my SOCAN application... is one better than the other? ASCAP or BMI? I have no publishing deal to help me decide one way or the other.


R.

[steveg]

Hey R,

I chose BMI for no particular reason. Originally, I think BMI (broadcast music inc.) was more for popular music and ASCAP for composers (like broadway showtunes), but now I think there's very little difference. I've heard good things about both.

BMI sometimes has cool events in NY - last year I went to one where they play 90 seconds of everyone's demo and had a panel of A&R people tell you why you're not famous yet. You also get a newsletter about how your fellow BMI artists at giant record labels are winning grammys, etc. I do hear about interesting events and happenings in BMI email updates sometimes, but I'm sure ASCAP has something similar.

Good luck!

Thanks,
Steve

[brandondrury]

I got into a big discussion with a producer pal of mine who is deals with both frequently. I'm pretty sure he said both suck. He'll randomly get a check for $10k and not really know why. There will be no explanation of why he is gettin paid or why he didn't get paid for months before that.

Of course, my producer buddy, is known to kind of be in his own world and not paying attention to thinks like this.

Brandon

[wyze]

do both u get 2 checks if u can afford it

[DT Chris]

In a world wide market, is ASCAP and BMI even effective anymore? Can they really stop someone in the Phillipines from performing my songs?

[brandondrury]

Oh, I don't their job is to play "police". I think it's more of a donation thingy. The institutions that want to comply (tv, movies, radio, etc) pay their cash. The institutions that don't, don't.

I've never met a person who paid the legally required royalties for covering live songs. No one seems to care.

Brandon

[Gensonicsrainbow]

I joined B.M.I. as another avenue for POTENTIAL income.
The reason I say potential is because the people or bands that perform other peoples songs and orchestrations,that don't attain permission first are many and even B.M.I. or Ascap can't stop all of the thieves.
However, I have faith in the majority of people and especially other musicians to pay royalties when they use your songs and These two organizations can help you attain the money due you.
I know,I've heard the argument that music is for everyone and it should be shared with everyone FREELY.
Let's face it though,we all know the computer that you're using,the software,the cool gear we all love to buy costs money...not to mention your time is worth something to you....so you really do deserve some income for bringing the muse to the public.
Selling your CD's,Live Performance,Digital Downloads of your songs,B.M.I. and Ascap all help you earn your living as a musician.

[Gensonicsrainbow]

Addendum!!

Don't forget to copyright officially(Washington,D.C.)all of your songs.