Independent Artists: How to Collect All Your Royalties (Not Just Streaming)

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Introduction

Spotify checks aren’t the whole story. Learn how indie artists can collect every royalty stream — from publishing to live performance.

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RECORDING VS PUBLISHING ROYALTIES

• Recording royalties: paid by DSPs like Spotify and Apple via your distributor.

• Publishing royalties: paid to songwriters via PROs (PRS, ASCAP, BMI).

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OTHER ROYALTIES ARTISTS MISS

• Mechanical royalties (from downloads, physical sales).

• Performance royalties (radio, live shows, TV).

• Neighbouring rights (public performance of recordings).

• UGC royalties (YouTube, TikTok).

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Step-by-Step: How to Collect Them All

1. Sign up with a PRO (PRS, ASCAP, BMI).

2. Register your works with correct metadata.

3. Check if you need a publishing admin (Songtrust, Tunecore Publishing).

4. Use SoundExchange for US digital performance royalties.

5. Work with a recovery partner for global reach (Earned).

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WHY IT MATTERS

• Streaming income is only part of the puzzle.

• Many indie artists leave 30–50% of potential income uncollected.

• With the right setup, you can secure every royalty you’ve earned.

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