By Staff Reporter
news@alexreporter.co.za
The South African music industry is a dynamic and vibrant community that has produced some of the world’s most iconic musicians and soundtracks.
As the music industry gears up for the highly anticipated Metro FM Awards, we reflect on the importance of music royalty collection as a vital aspect of this thriving ecosystem.
“By understanding the different types of music royalties, fans can appreciate the intricate and complex nature of the music industry and the financial support that music creators require to continue producing the music that they love,” emphasizes Thanda Myeza.
Myeza, a distinguished music scoring and music royalty expert, describes music royalties as payments made to music creators for the use of their music.
These payments can come in different forms, including mechanical royalties, performance royalties, and synchronization royalties.
Mechanical royalties are payments made to music composers, songwriters and music publishers for the reproduction of their music, such as when their music is streamed online or sold in physical form.
Performance royalties are paid to performers, songwriters, and composers when their music is played on radio, television, or in live performances.
Synchronization royalties are paid to songwriters and publishers for the use of their music in films, TV shows, and commercials which is Myeza primary focus/specialty.
Music royalties are crucial for the sustainability of the music industry, as emphasized by Myeza.
“Music creators invest significant time, energy, and resources into creating music that resonates with their audiences. Royalties ensure that they receive fair compensation for their hard work, allowing them to continue creating music that inspires and entertains us.”
In South Africa, two main organizations, Southern African Music Rights Organization (SAMRO) and the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA), are responsible for collecting music royalties. These organizations work collaboratively to ensure that music creators are paid for the use of their music.
SAMRO collects performance royalties for composers and publishers, while SAMPRA collects performance royalties for recording artists and record labels.
These organizations guarantee that music creators receive equitable compensation for their work. CAPASSO – Digital rights licensing agency which is an extension to SAMRO that focusses on digital music distribution and music royalty claims for online streaming – TV, radio, music apps, films, commercials, social media, etc.
Myeza highlights the importance of understanding music royalties, both for music creators and music users.
“Music creators must register with SAMRO, SAMPRA and CAPASSO to receive their royalties. Music users such as radio stations, TV networks, and streaming platforms must obtain licenses from these organizations to use music legally and avoid legal consequences.”
As the South African music industry celebrates the Metro FM Awards, Myeza encourages all stakeholders to prioritize music royalty collection to guarantee that music creators receive fair compensation for their work.
“The music industry is a vital part of our culture, and we must ensure that those who create it are adequately rewarded. By supporting music royalties, we are building a sustainable music industry that benefits everyone involved.”
