MCPS Update & Musicians Union Writers Committee
Hi all,
A little update on the MCPS campaign to start.
On Monday I submitted a ‘test case’ (ie: me) for membership of MCPS based on my streaming record. On Friday I received an e-mail to let me know that this has been accepted! This is a big step in getting the joining criteria changed. Writers/composers who’s music is being mechanically reproduced (ie: streaming, CD’s, TV) should now be able to join MCPS to collect their mechanical royalties independently. Great news for all independent’s in the UK who are missing that 50% of their streaming income!
I’m a big fan of music publishing, but in an age where musicians and creators rightly are now able to control their own destiny this will also mean that independent writers/composers will be able to decide which path is right for them. Whether they wish to engage with a form of publishing deal, use an admin service such as Song Trust and Sentric Music, or ‘self publish’ and collect their own royalties.
As well as the change what I’m hoping will now follow, is a series of articles and workshops from partner organisations such as the Musicians Union and The Ivors Academy so that we can educate more musicians on the importance of mechanical royalties. The Musicians Union will be running an article in their next edition of ‘Musician’ magazine by journalist Neil Churchman on MCPS, mechanical royalties, and what the potential change will mean which will feature content from yours truly and Paul Clements from the MPA/MCPS.
I have to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped me ‘get a foot in the door’ on this. Everyone at the MPA (Music Publishers Association), the MCPS (particularly Paul Clements & Gavin Burness) and Graham Davies & Crispin Hunt at The Ivors Academy have been great in supporting my gut instinct here.
On another note I’m very pleased to announce I’m now also an elected member of the Musicians Union’s Writer’s Committee! Looking forward to continuing to support fellow writers and composers in the music industry. Last week was a pretty good one…
Anna x