Why Do I Have to Choose U.S. Representation If I Am Affiliated With a Foreign PRO?

It's not a double affiliation.

Most territories have only one Performing Rights Organization (PRO) — from Canada’s SOCAN to Australia’s APRA — in charge of collecting royalties within its borders.

The United States operates a little differently. Four different PROs are responsible for collecting royalties: ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and GMR.

When you are asked to choose “U.S. representation” as an international writer, this simply means the PRO that’ll be collecting royalties on your behalf specifically in the U.S. Please note that you will only be able to choose between ASCAP and BMI, as the others are invitation-only.

Thanks for reading. Please rate the article below.

Want to keep up with Songtrust for frequent music and publishing updates?