BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Music Business Glossary

What is BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)?

BMI, also known as Broadcast Music, Inc., is one of the largest performing rights organizations in the United States. It was founded in 1939 by radio executives as a way to collect and distribute royalties for songwriters, composers, and music publishers. BMI represents over 1.1 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers and licenses the public performance rights for over 17 million musical works.

How does BMI work?

BMI operates as a non-profit organization that collects licensing fees from businesses that use music in public performances, such as radio stations, television networks, restaurants, bars, and streaming services. These fees are then distributed as royalties to the songwriters, composers, and music publishers whose works are performed.

What services does BMI provide to music creators?

BMI provides a range of services to music creators to help them protect their rights and maximize their earnings. These services include:
– Licensing: BMI issues licenses to businesses that use music in public performances, ensuring that music creators are compensated for their work.
– Royalty collection: BMI collects royalties from licensed businesses and distributes them to music creators based on the frequency and popularity of their works.
– Advocacy: BMI advocates for the rights of music creators and works to ensure fair compensation for their work in the digital age.
– Education: BMI offers educational resources and workshops to help music creators navigate the music industry and build successful careers.

How does BMI collect and distribute royalties?

BMI uses advanced technology to track the public performance of musical works and collect licensing fees from businesses. These fees are then distributed as royalties to music creators based on the frequency and popularity of their works. BMI also provides detailed reports to music creators so they can track the performance of their works and earnings.

What are the benefits of joining BMI as a music creator?

Joining BMI as a music creator offers a range of benefits, including:
– Access to a vast network of music industry professionals and opportunities for collaboration.
– Protection of your rights as a music creator through BMI’s licensing and royalty collection services.
– Opportunities to earn royalties from public performances of your works, both domestically and internationally.
– Educational resources and workshops to help you navigate the music industry and build a successful career.

How does BMI support music education and advocacy efforts?

BMI is committed to supporting music education and advocacy efforts to ensure that music creators are fairly compensated for their work. BMI partners with schools, universities, and music organizations to provide educational resources and workshops for aspiring music creators. Additionally, BMI advocates for the rights of music creators at the legislative level, working to shape policies that protect their rights and ensure fair compensation in the digital age. Through these efforts, BMI is dedicated to supporting the next generation of music creators and fostering a thriving music industry.