Ascap Vs Bmi Vs Sesac Vs, Gmr
Choosing the right Performance Rights Organization (PRO) is one of the most important decisions a songwriter makes. This comprehensive comparison breaks down all four US PROs to help you decide.
Side-By-Side Comparison
| FEATURE | ASCAP | BMI | SESAC | GMR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1914 | 1939 | 1930 | 2013 |
| Members | 920,000+ | 1,200,000+ | 30,000+ | Select roster |
| Membership | Open — anyone can join | Open — anyone can join | Invitation only | Invitation only |
| Songwriter Fee | Free | Free | N/A (invite) | N/A (invite) |
| Publisher Fee | $50 | $150 | N/A (invite) | N/A (invite) |
| Payment Frequency | Quarterly | Quarterly | Quarterly | Monthly |
| Payment Delay | 6-9 months | 5.5-8 months | 6-9 months | 3-6 months |
| Monitoring Method | Census + Sample | Census + Sample | Proprietary tech | Proprietary tech |
| International Network | 90+ societies | 85+ societies | 80+ societies | Smaller network |
| Exclusive Contract | Yes — 1 year terms | Yes — 2 year terms | Yes — multi-year | Yes — varies |
| Online Portal | ✅ ASCAP Plus | ✅ BMI Live | ✅ SESAC Online | ✅ Portal |
| Genre Strengths | Pop, Rock, Classical | Country, Hip-Hop, R&B | Gospel, Latin, Jazz | Pop, Rock hits |
Deep Dive: Each Pro
American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers
Best for: Songwriters in pop, rock, classical, and musical theater who value the largest global network and free membership.
Best for: Songwriters in country, hip-hop, R&B, and Latin who want the largest peer community.
Society of European Stage Authors and Composers
Best for: Established songwriters who value personal service and receive an invitation. Strong in gospel, Latin, jazz, and Americana.
Best for: Top-tier professional songwriters with significant catalog value who are invited to join.
ASCAP
BMI
SESAC
GMR
Important: Pros Only Collect Performance Royalties
Regardless of which PRO you join, you still need a publishing administrator to collect mechanical royalties, sync fees, and international royalties. JukeHouse handles everything your PRO doesn't.
How To Switch Pros
Research your options — review each PRO's payment schedules, contract terms, and services
Wait for your contract expiration — most PROs require notice before your term ends
Submit a resignation letter to your current PRO (typically 3-6 months before term end)
Apply to your new PRO once your resignation is effective
Re-register all your works with the new PRO (your admin can help)
Update your publisher/administrator about the change
Collect Everything Your Pro Doesn'T
JukeHouse works alongside your PRO to collect mechanical royalties, sync fees, and international royalties — the income PROs don't touch.
Ready to collect what you're owed?
JukeHouse registers, tracks, and collects royalties from 60+ societies worldwide.