Music Publishing: The Backbone of the Music Business
In today’s music industry, publishing means power. If you’re not talking about publishing, you’re missing the money. Music publishing ensures that songwriters and composers get paid whenever their music is used—whether it’s streamed, performed live, played on radio, or featured in films.
But publishing goes beyond just making music. It’s about:
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Licensing
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Tracking usage
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Collecting royalties
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Protecting your legal rights
Bottom line? Music publishing turns your sound into a sustainable income stream.
The Role of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC)
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) is the national body protecting your creative rights. Established under the Nigerian Copyright Act, the NCC ensures your work is not only respected—but also monetized.
The NCC partners with Collective Management Organizations (CMOs) like the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MSCN) to help track music use, collect royalties, and pay artists.
Pro Tip: Register your works with a recognized CMO. It’s one of the smartest ways to secure your royalties.
Understanding Music Royalties
Royalties are your reward for creating music—but not all royalties are the same. Here’s a quick guide:
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Mechanical Royalties – From physical sales and downloads (e.g. CDs, iTunes).
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Performance Royalties – When your music is played in public (radio, clubs, events).
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Sync Royalties – When your track is used in visual content (ads, films, games).
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Streaming Royalties – Paid every time your music is streamed online.
These income streams can overlap. The more you understand, the more you earn.
Demystifying Royalties – Why It Matters
Many artists miss out on earnings simply because they don’t understand how royalties work. Demystifying royalties brings:
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Clarity on where your money comes from
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Smarter choices in licensing and distribution
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Stronger trust with labels and platforms
The Benefits of Royalty Transparency
For Artists:
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Financial Confidence – Predictable, fair payments
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Stronger Deals – Knowledge = leverage
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Better Relationships – Transparency builds trust
For Platforms (like Hafrikplay):
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Attracts Artists – Fair systems bring serious talent
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Avoids Legal Risks – Clear, legal royalty structures
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Drives Innovation – Better data means better user experiences
For Labels:
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Retains Talent – Artists stay where they’re paid fairly
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Improves Accounting – Simpler royalty tracking
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Boosts Reputation – Transparency earns respect
For Nigeria’s Music Industry:
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Drives Growth – More music = more jobs and money
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Global Investment – Transparent systems attract investors
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Cultural Impact – Empowered artists grow Nigeria’s global sound
The Other Side – Challenges of Transparency
Of course, clarity comes with its own hurdles:
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For Artists: Royalty data can be complex and overwhelming
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For Platforms: Transparency demands top-tier tech and skilled teams
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For Labels: Artists with insight may renegotiate or walk away
Still, the benefits outweigh the challenges. A transparent system builds a stronger industry for everyone.
Final Note: Knowledge Is Your Royalty Weapon
This isn’t just about dropping hits—it’s about owning your music journey.
Understand your publishing.
Demystify your royalties.
Secure your future.