Most artists think the only way to get paid for a show is if the promoter cuts them a check. What they don’t realize is that every time they perform their own music live, BMI and ASCAP owe them royalties.
This applies to open mics, showcases, small venues, and big stages. If the venue has a music license, your setlist can earn you money. Let’s break it all the way down.
🎶 Why You Get Paid for Performing Your Own Music
Every time your song is performed in public, it counts as a public performance. Venues (bars, lounges, clubs, even coffee shops) pay license fees to BMI and ASCAP so they can legally host live music. Because of this license, you — the songwriter/artist — can collect royalties when you perform your registered music.
✅ What You Need First
Before you can collect, make sure you:
Join a PRO (Performance Rights Organization) — either BMI or ASCAP.
Register every original song you release with your PRO.
Keep records of your performances (flyers, contracts, setlists).
Without registered songs, there’s nothing for them to pay you on.
🎤 How to Report Your Shows
BMI Live
Log into your BMI account. Go to the BMI Live portal. Enter the date, venue name, and your setlist (the original songs you performed). Submit within 6 months of the performance.
ASCAP OnStage
Log into your ASCAP account. Go to the OnStage program. Enter the same details: venue, date, and original songs. ASCAP also accepts reports for small gigs — no performance is too small.
💸 How Much Can You Make?
Payouts depend on the venue’s license size, audience reach, and the number of times you report. Payments might start small ($10–$150 per gig), but if you perform consistently, they add up every quarter. The larger the stage, the bigger the check.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Artists Make
Performing unregistered songs.
Forgetting to submit their setlists.
Assuming small shows don’t count.
Missing reporting deadlines.
Every missed report = lost royalties.
🔑 Pro Tip: Stack Multiple Income Streams
While you collect your BMI/ASCAP royalties, you can also:
Charge performance fees from promoters. Sell merch and digital products at shows. Collect SoundExchange royalties if your performance is broadcast online or on radio.
This way, each show pays you in multiple ways.
📝 Final Word from PaySos
If you’re an artist, don’t just perform for the love — perform for the bag.
Register your music, report your shows, and build a routine where every gig turns into royalties.
👉 Follow me on IG @iamkingpaysos
👉 Tap into my blog: Kingpaysos.blog
Don’t leave money on the table. Get your performance royalties.
Related Reads:
Before You Sign: Royalty Checklist
Kingpaysos.Blog 
Leave a comment