How Songwriters Get Paid

Today, songwriters, lyricists, and poets are making real income through their words.

Just like performing artists and musicians, songwriters can earn royalties and revenue from every song they create. Whether it's a song you've written alone or co-written, as long as it’s published and played, there’s a potential stream of income waiting.

So, how do songwriters make money?

As a songwriter, you can earn income from music downloads, streaming platforms, live performances, radio play, film placements, and direct contracts. The more successful and widely circulated your songs are, the higher your earnings.

But here's the key: you must ensure you're collecting the royalties you're entitled to. That means joining the right organizations and platforms that protect your rights and pay your dues.

💰 60 Practical Ways Songwriters Get Paid

53. Mechanical Royalties

You earn mechanical royalties every time your song is physically sold (CDs, vinyl), digitally downloaded, or streamed online. These royalties are paid by streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, and others.
To receive mechanical royalties, you must register your works with a music rights agency or collection society. In Nigeria, this could be COSON or MCSN. Internationally, ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and PRS (UK) are key bodies to consider.

54. Public Performance Royalties

Each time your song is played in a public space — on radio, during a live performance, in clubs, hotels, or restaurants — a performance royalty is generated.
You’ll need to be affiliated with a Performance Rights Organization (PRO) like BMI, ASCAP, PRS, GEMA, or COSON (Nigeria) to receive this income.

55. Sync Licensing & Placements

Film producers, TV companies, advertising agencies, and video game companies pay for the rights to use your song in their productions. This is called a sync license and often involves a one-time upfront fee.
Sync placements can generate both initial income and long-term royalties, especially if the show or movie becomes popular.

56. Publishing or Record Deals

If you get signed by a music publishing company or a record label, you may receive an advance or monthly retainer to write songs for signed artists or specific projects.
These companies will pitch your songs to suitable artists, movies, or brands and split the royalties with you based on the contract.

57. Indie Music Publishers

Independent publishers and labels are constantly scouting for fresh talent. They're more open to unsolicited submissions than major publishers, making them a great entry point.
Submit a strong lyric sheet or demo to these companies. They can help place your music or lyrics with upcoming and established artists.

58. Writing Lyrics for Artists

You can also write directly for artists. Many musicians seek professional lyricists to help develop songs or complete unfinished ideas.
Reach out via email, social media, or through mutual contacts. Tailor your pitch to each artist's style, and present your lyrics professionally—preferably as a lyric sheet or recorded demo.

59. Sell Original Song Lyrics

If you write catchy, original lyrics, you’re already a songwriter. You can begin by posting your lyrics online, entering lyric-writing contests, or working with local producers and singers.
Being discovered or signed often starts with consistent effort and putting your work out publicly.

60. Submit Lyrics to Music Platforms

You can submit your lyrics to online music and lyric libraries that pay or help you get discovered. Examples include:

• Songbay

• Premium Lyrics

• LyricFind

• The Songwriter’s Network

• Fan Music

• Smash Songs

• Ditto Music

These platforms either pay you for licensing your work or connect you with buyers, collaborators, and publishers.

🎶 Royalty Collection Societies You Should Join

If you want to be properly compensated, it’s essential to register with one or more music collection societies or performance rights organizations.

International Platforms:

• ASCAP (USA)

• BMI (USA)

• SESAC (USA)

• PRS for Music (UK)

• SOCAN (Canada)

In Nigeria:

• COSON – Copyright Society of Nigeria

• MCSN – Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria

These organizations track performances, collect royalties on your behalf, and distribute payments based on reports and algorithms.