Indie publisher for local songwriters

Songwriters usually pay through a share of the royalties. Music users such as broadcasters, streaming services, labels and advertisers pay licence fees that flow back to you.

You keep an agreed share of the royalties and licence fees earned by the songs you administer, often a smaller share for admin-only deals and a larger one if you actively pitch the songs.

• Organised with contracts and detail
• Understanding of music and songwriting
• Good at building trust and relationships

• Contracts matter a great deal here, so get legal advice on ownership, term length and splits before signing anyone
• Check what you need to register as a publisher member with SOCAN and how mechanical rights are handled in your province, including Quebec
• Income can be slow and uneven because royalties are paid months after the music is used
• Check with your municipality about home-based business rules and whether you need to register for GST/HST
• Consider errors and omissions or liability insurance if you pitch songs for licensing

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000, depending on your registrations, contract preparation and any insurance you choose. Legal advice on your songwriter agreements is worth budgeting for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $1,500, depending on the songs you sign and how often they are used. Royalties are paid months after use, so income can be slow and uneven.

Check what you need to register as a publisher member with SOCAN and how mechanical rights are handled in your province, including Quebec. Get legal advice on contracts, and check home-based business rules and GST/HST registration.