ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers)
Performance rights organization collecting royalties when members' music is publicly performed.
Definition
ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) is a performance rights organization (PRO) that collects royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers, and music publishers when their music is publicly performed. ASCAP licenses venues, broadcasters, and streaming services, distributing collected fees to members.
As a membership organization, ASCAP advocates for songwriter rights and provides professional development through events, workshops, and industry access. ASCAP competes with BMI and SESAC for member affiliation.
Why It Matters
Performance royalties represent significant songwriter income that individual creators couldn't efficiently collect. ASCAP membership ensures compensation when music plays in restaurants, on radio, or through streaming.
ASCAP's advocacy advances songwriter interests in policy discussions affecting copyright and royalty rates. Collective voice achieves outcomes individual songwriters couldn't.
Examples in Practice
ASCAP royalty statements reveal unexpected income from performances a songwriter didn't know occurred, demonstrating the PRO's comprehensive monitoring.
ASCAP showcase placement exposes an emerging songwriter to publishers and artists seeking songs, generating opportunities beyond self-promotion capability.
ASCAP advocacy on streaming rates contributes to improved compensation structures that benefit the songwriter's catalog income.