You’re an indie artist — do you need legal protection?
When music becomes more than just a pastime and you set out to write, play, and release music, it’s time to consider steps you should take to protect yourself. Read the post.
copyright basics
Can You Sell Your Music as an NFT?
What the heck is an NFT? And is there any money to be made as an independent artist selling your music as one? Read the post.
How to monetize your music on YouTube
In my fourth video about YouTube and your music, I explain how to monetize your music on YouTube, because I know way too many artists are missing out on this revenue. Read the post.
New music royalties: The Mechanical Licensing Collective and what it means for you
The new Mechanical Licensing Collective collects digital audio mechanical royalties from download and streaming services. Learn about the collective and see if you qualify to sign up so you can receive these new music royalties. Read the post.
When should a producer get a publishing split?
While a producer may get points on your sound recording, is he or she entitled to a share of the composition (songwriting) royalties? It depends on how they’ve contributed. Read the post.
What are music producer points?
A music producer can be an essential part of the creative process, but make sure you know how the compensation structure works before you start your project. Read the post.
Licensing holiday songs — don’t assume it’s in the public domain
Recording your own iconic versions of familiar Christmas carols or holiday songs might be the perfect way to catch the attention of new fans or thank your existing fan base with a free download or limited-edition CD. But don’t assume your choice is in the public domain. Read the post.
How does sync licensing work?
In video number seven in our ongoing series on rights and royalties, Tony van Veen digs into sync licenses. How does an indie musician get in on the action, and how do sync licenses work? Read the post.
Your copyright and royalty questions answered
On the heels of his YouTube series addressing copyrights and royalties, Tony van Veen solicited questions from you, our viewers and readers — and you responded. Here are answers to some of the copyright questions that are on your mind. Read the post.
I own the sound recording of my song… how do I make money?
In our third video about music copyrights and royalties, Disc Makers’ CEO Tony van Veen discusses what royalties and payments you are entitled to if you own and exploit the sound recording of your song. Read the post.
Should you “officially” copyright your music?
In our second video about music copyrights and royalties, Disc Makers’ CEO Tony van Veen talks about registering your song for copyright. Should you do it? Read the post.
Understanding music rights and royalties
Disc Makers’ CEO Tony van Veen has started a new video series aimed at answering your questions about copyrights, how you’re paid for them, and what you need to do to collect your royalties. Read the post.
Music publishing for 2nd graders
A friend of mine wanted me to explain music publishing and he asked me to “use language a 2nd grader would understand.” I figured this could serve our blog readers who need a primer (or refresher). Enjoy! Read the post.
License your music (and generate revenue)
Excerpted from our latest guide, this post gives an overview of what music licensing is and lays out five things you can do to boost your chances to license your music. Read the post.
Focus on making more money from music this year
Here are 10 posts from the Randy Chertkow and Jason Feehan (AKA The Music Money Guys) that will help you make more money with your music in 2020. Read the post.