MUSIC PUBLISHING
GLOSSARY

Performing Rights Organizations (PRO)

PROs are responsible for collecting income on behalf of songwriters and music publishers when a song is publicly broadcast or performed. Public performances can include play on television or radio, in clubs and restaurants, on websites, or on other broadcasting systems. PROs collect license fees for this usage which they pay to their registered songwriters after taking a small fee. 

Related Terms:

• Collection Society
• Collective Management Organization (CMO)
• Mechanical Rights Organization (MRO)
• Rights Administration Entity (RAE)

Related Articles:

• Defining Pay Sources: The Difference Between a PRO and CMO
• Do I Need More Than a Performance Rights Organization?
• A Guide to Key Pay Sources in the U.S.
• A Guide to Key Pay Sources in Mexico
• A Guide to Key Pay Sources in the United Kingdom
• A Guide to Key Pay Sources in Brazil
• A Guide to Key Pay Sources in Ireland
• Where does Songtrust collect royalties from?
• Is Songtrust a performing rights organization like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC?

Related Resources:

• Songtrust's Global Royalty Collection Network

Go back to Glossary