How Unsigned Artists Can Get Their Songs Published

If you are an unsigned artist looking to get your songs published, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of the music industry and the various platforms and services available to you. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of publishing your songs, including digital publishing through platforms like Tubecore or Distrokid, and traditional publishing through music publishers.

General Strategies for Getting Your Songs Published

As a new or unsigned artist, you don’t have to go at it alone. There are various music publishers and services that you can approach to help get your songs published. Here are some strategies for getting your songs in front of the right publishers:

Find Music Publishers: Use songwriter websites to find lists of publishers and their websites. Many reputable publishers are open to working with unsigned artists, especially those in specific genres. Start by researching the lists and identifying publishers that align with your genre and style. Create a Digital Presence: In the digital age, it’s relatively easy to publish your songs through platforms like Tubecore or Distrokid. These services can help you connect with a wider audience, but it’s important to manage your expectations about earnings. While these platforms simplify the publishing process, they may not necessarily lead to significant financial gains. Record and Produce Your Songs: Once you have your songs ready, upload them to popular streaming platforms like Spotify. Services like CD Baby can help you distribute your music across multiple platforms. In addition to audio releases, create a video or other visual content to accompany your songs. Share this content on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to build anticipation and interest.

Traditional Publishing: Creating a Relationship with a Music Publisher

For artists looking to pursue a more traditional approach to publishing, understanding the intricacies of a publishing deal is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:

Create a Publisher Account: To truly publish your music, you need to create a publisher account with a Performance Rights Organization (PRO). The PRO you choose will depend on your location. In the USA, you can choose from ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. If you’re outside the USA, a simple Google search can help you identify the appropriate PRO for your country. Register Your Songs with the Library of Congress: While registering your songs with the Library of Congress doesn’t technically constitute traditional publishing, registering them as published works can be advantageous. This process requires a small fee and a copy of the audio. In a publishing deal, the publisher will handle all the legal and administrative work, ensuring that your music is legally clear. Understand What Constitutes Publishing: In the strictest sense, publishing means putting your music out in the public for people to purchase. Querying your songs to song publishers is another way to use the term. Publishing deals involve creating a relationship with a company that helps you exploit your music, manage copyrights, and collect income. Be clear about these terms to avoid misunderstandings and legal issues.

Maintaining Clarity and Avoiding Legal Issues

Once you start working with music publishers, it’s important to maintain clarity about the nature of your deals. Misunderstandings can lead to significant problems, so it’s crucial to be honest and clear about whether your songs are already published or if they are available for licensing. Some companies may require actual publishing, which means more than just listing your music on a website or selling it on Amazon. Having a PRO handle your music ensures that your rights are protected and that any income from your songs is collected and properly allocated.

These strategies will help you navigate the complex world of music publishing as an unsigned artist. Whether you choose to go the digital route or work with traditional publishers, the key is to do your research, stay informed, and manage your expectations. With the right approach, you can bring your music to a wider audience and turn your passion into a successful career.