Performer Rights: What Every Artist Should Know

Whether you sing on stage, act on screen, or create content online, you own a set of rights that protect your work and your income. Too many performers ignore these rules and end up missing royalties or facing legal trouble. Below is a straight‑to‑the‑point rundown of the basics you can start using today.

Why Performer Rights Matter

When you perform, you generate two kinds of value: the creative output (the song, the scene, the video) and the commercial use (streaming, TV broadcast, live gigs). Performer rights make sure you get paid for both. In many countries the law automatically gives you a share of any public performance, but you often have to claim it through a collection society or a contract.

If you skip this step, the venue, the label, or the streaming platform keeps the money. It’s not just about cash – rights also give you control over how your work is used. That means you can stop a brand from using your song in an ad you don’t approve, or prevent a video from being remixed without permission.

Key Steps to Secure Your Rights

1. Register with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO). In the UK you have PRS for Music, in the US ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. Sign up, upload your works, and let the PRO track where they’re played. You’ll receive statements every few months.

2. Get a written contract for every gig. Even a small club gig should have a simple agreement that spells out payment, schedule, and who owns the recording. If you’re filming, make sure the contract includes a clause about performance royalties.

3. Understand "neighboring rights". These rights are separate from songwriting copyrights and cover the actual recording and your performance on it. They’re especially important for live recordings and broadcasts.

4. Use a clear release form for collaborations. When you work with another artist, a release makes it obvious who owns what. This prevents future disputes over splits or licensing.

5. Keep track of your digital footprints. Platforms like YouTube have built‑in tools to claim content ID matches. Activate them so the platform can automatically redirect ad revenue to you.

For performers in adult services, the same principles apply: have a contract that states consent, privacy, and payment terms. Register any original content you produce and use secure channels to collect earnings.

Finally, stay informed. Laws change, and new platforms appear all the time. Subscribe to newsletters from your PRO, join artist forums, and consider a quick chat with an entertainment lawyer once a year. Knowing your rights isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for keeping your art profitable and safe.