How to Publish Your Music
Whether it's a soaring pop ballad or a digital techno groove, your music is your own creative expression. Publishing authentic music of your own creation can prove profitable, even if your songs aren't sung by the latest pop sensation. Many other avenues exist to turn your melodies into extra cash.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Create a written guide that enables others to perform the song. Write out lyrics in proper stanza form with the chord changes written above the words. If you are able to write music, create sheet music layered first with piano accompaniment then a treble clef line of melody.
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2
Copyright your music by registering the works with the U.S. Copyright Office. This will ensure your rights to the songs and provide proof of your ownership of the copyright in the event someone else tries to claim the music as their own.
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3
Find a music publisher or self-publish your music. Music publishers are able to shop your music to a wide variety of potential buyers, including advertising agencies, managers for musical acts and musical directors for movies. Contact music publishers to inquire about possible publishing deals for your music that ensure you will be paid royalties for your creation. One good place to start is the Music Publishers Association at mpa.org. If you choose to self-publish, you are then responsible for marketing and promoting your music to potential buyers.
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Tips & Warnings
In addition to writing your music down on paper or sheet music, record the song and keep it on a CD or downloadable MP3 file. The more proof you have that the song is yours, the easier it will be to defend it in court and collect damages in the event someone else tries to claim the song as their own.
Make sure your publishing deal is fair. You should be paid royalties every time your music is used or played. Be sure to find out how long your music publisher takes to pay. The monetary response should be timely; if it isn't, find another publisher.
