When Is the Next BMI Royalty Payment? (2025-2026 Schedule)

The next BMI royalty payment is scheduled for February 20, 2026. This distribution will cover performances that occurred during the 3rd Quarter of 2025 (July 1 – September 30, 2025). If you are an independent artist or songwriter, cash flow is everything. Unlike a regular 9-to-5 paycheck, music royalties arrive on a strict quarterly schedule. […]

Can I Be My Own Music Publisher? (DIY vs. Admin Deals)

Yes, you can technically be your own publisher by registering a “Publisher Entity” with a PRO like ASCAP or BMI. However, simply having a name doesn’t mean you are collecting all your royalties. To be a fully functioning publisher, you must also register with the MLC, HFA, and dozens of international societies. For most artists, […]

Distributor vs. PRO vs. Publisher: Who Collects What? (2026 Guide)

The Bottom Line Up Front: You need all three. A Distributor gets your recorded music onto Spotify and Apple Music. A PRO (Performing Rights Organization) collects royalties when your songs are played in public (radio, venues). A Publisher collects mechanical royalties and global income that the other two miss. If you are missing one of […]