(Hypebot) — US performing rights organization AllTrack was founded as an alternative to BMI, ASCAP and SESAC. Now the new PRO has obtained membership of CISAC (International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers).
CISAC has 227 member associations in 116 countries, representing more than 5 million creators around the world. Three other US PROs are also members of CISAC. The fourth is Irving Azoff’s Global Music Rights (GMR)\, which has not yet joined CISAC.
AllTrack challenges the pros
AllTrack promises “game-changing technology” that automatically enriches metadata to find and “monetize all musical uses.” This attracted some important songwriters, whose songs were recorded or performed by No Doubt, Keith Urban, Travis Barker, Soulja Boy and others.
On-site venue clutter and higher costs
The five major PROs in the U.S. that could mean higher costs and more complex reporting include streaming services (Spotify, YouTube, TikTok, etc.), radio, TV, local businesses and Live music venue.
Most countries have a PRO.
Live music venues – already struggling with inflation and increased competition – have been particularly hard hit.
A concert performing an original song registered with ASCAP still requires licensing and payment to all five PROs.
Artists are hurt, too. How compensation is divided among professionals who do not play songs at the show remains a closely guarded secret among all professionals.
Trade groups NIVA, which represents venues and promoters, and NITO, which represents agents and managers, are looking for solutions. But so far, they haven’t succeeded.
Bruce Horton He is the founder and editor of Hypebot, senior consultant at Bandsintown, president of Skyline Artists Agency, and professor at the Berkeley School of Music.
