SoundExchange royalty distributions pass $11 billion

Culumative SoundExchange distributions have now passed $11 billion in digital performance royalties since its launch in 2003.

This marks the third time in a row that 12-month distributions have exceeded $1 billion.

During its 21 years, SoundExchange has advocated on behalf of creators before the U.S. Copyright Royalty Board, helping to achieve increases of 711% in satellite royalties, 294% in subscription royalties, and 215% in non-subscription royalties.

SoundExchange’s advocacy also extends to Washington, D.C., where it’s pushing for the American Music Fairness Act, legislation to pay performers when their music is played on broadcast radio, as well as, laws that would regulate artificial intelligence and how it affects creators.

“We continue to be driven every day by the guiding principle of putting more money into the hands of creators and rights holders,” said Michael Huppe, President and CEO of SoundExchange. “The continuing growth in royalty distributions to a billion dollars a year is reflective of a healthy digital music ecosystem, but it’s not something we take for granted. Our dedication to the community of creators we serve is unshakable, and we will continue to advocate tirelessly for artists to receive fair and equitable compensation for the use of their work on all platforms.”

Bruce Houghton is the Founder and Editor of Hypebot, a Senior Advisor at Bandsintown, President of the Skyline Artists Agency, and a Berklee College Of Music professor.