what is a music publisher

A music publisher is a type of publisher that specializes in distributing music. Originally, music publishers were responsible for publishing sheet music, but as copyright protection became legally recognized, they began to play a role in managing the intellectual property of composers. In the music industry, a music publisher or publishing company ensures that songwriters and composers receive payment when their compositions are used commercially. This is done through a publishing contract, in which the songwriter or composer assigns the copyright of their composition to the publishing company. In return, the company licenses compositions, monitors their usage, collects royalties, and distributes them to the composers. Music publishers also work on behalf of songwriters or composers to collect and pay out all of the royalties they earn from their compositions, including performing royalties generated from live performances, radio play, and public venues. Additionally, music publishers secure commercially released recordings, CDs, and tapes of the songs they control, administer various revenue streams, and provide promotional and placement services for their clients compositions. Overall, music publishers play a crucial role in ensuring that composers and songwriters are compensated for their work and in maximizing the commercial potential of musical compositions.