The Songwriters and Composers Guild (SCG) is a grassroots organization led by professional songwriters and producers, united by a joint mission—to rally for a union petition and election with the National Labor Relations Board. We fiercely advocate for the rights of music creatives' and fight for a music industry where songwriters and producers can earn a livable wage from both the composition and sound recording in the streaming era and whatever formats emerge in the future.
Talking Points
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The government regulates publishing royalty rates for songwriters and producers similarly to how it regulates minimum wage, even though independent contractors should have the right to set their own compensation.
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Major record labels do not formally contract songwriters despite their classification as independent contractors.
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In the streaming era, songwriters struggle to earn a livable wage, while major music groups and digital service providers take most of the revenue.
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Songwriters receive publishing royalties only when their songs are released, and payments can take up to two years.
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Many songs are released before business agreements are finalized, further delaying royalty payments.
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Record labels often deny songwriters compensation for their contributions to sound recordings despite this part of the copyright generating the majority of the revenue.
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Songwriters and producers have limited control over their work for record labels and artists.
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The music industry frequently abuses songwriters and producers, leaving them without adequate protection.
