BMI
Broadcast Music, Inc.
Broadcaster-founded PRO, now owned by New Mountain Capital.
About BMI
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) is the largest Performance Rights Organization in the United States by member count. Founded in 1939, it was created as an alternative to ASCAP, initially focused on representing genres underserved by the existing system — including blues, jazz, country, R&B, and gospel.
BMI represents over 1.2 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers, with a catalog of over 22 million musical works. It collects performance royalties from the public performance of music across all platforms — radio, TV, digital streaming, live venues, and businesses.
In 2023, BMI was acquired by New Mountain Capital, making it a for-profit entity. Despite this change, BMI continues to operate as a royalty collection and distribution organization, paying out over $1.5 billion annually to its members.
How BMI works
Songwriters Register
Members register works through BMI's online system, providing song titles, co-writer information, ownership percentages, and publisher details.
BMI Licenses Businesses
BMI negotiates and issues blanket performance licenses to broadcasters, streaming services, venues, and businesses across the US and internationally.
Performances Are Tracked
BMI uses digital fingerprinting, BDS (Broadcast Data Systems), station logs, census data from DSPs, and cue sheets to monitor music usage across platforms.
Royalties Are Distributed
BMI calculates royalties based on the frequency, type, and reach of each performance. Different performance types (feature TV vs. background music) have different payment weights.
Why BMI matters for songwriters
United States is served by BMI for performance rights organization royalties. Without direct registration, international songwriters rely on reciprocal agreements — which typically add 12–24 months of delay before royalties reach you.
Frequently asked questions about BMI
What changed when BMI was acquired in 2023?
BMI was acquired by New Mountain Capital, transitioning from a nonprofit to a for-profit entity. Day-to-day operations for songwriters remain largely the same — royalty collection and distribution continue as before.
How does BMI Live work?
BMI Live is a program where songwriters can log their live performances at registered venues and receive performance royalties. You submit setlists through the BMI app or website after each show.
How long is the BMI membership contract?
BMI songwriter agreements are for an initial two-year term, then automatically renew for successive two-year periods. You can terminate by providing 90 days' written notice before the end of a term.
Does BMI handle mechanical or sync royalties?
No. BMI only handles performance royalties. You need the MLC or a publisher for mechanicals, and a publisher or direct negotiation for sync licensing.
Can I transfer from ASCAP to BMI?
Yes, but you must wait until your ASCAP membership term ends. Resign from ASCAP before the renewal date, then apply to BMI once your ASCAP membership is officially terminated.
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