Understanding APRA AMCOS

[RichoKidd]

Hey guys,

Hopefully this is the right section for this, if not, please move to correct area.

I have a question for those who consistently perform live. How many of you are members of APRA AMCOS?

The reason I ask is, I've been DJing for like 7 years now, and I am a member of APRA but I've never really 'used' it. I figure, now I have the chance at a residency, I should probably go legit.

Basically, I am trying to understand what exactly this government service will do to look after me? Why am I even a member of APRA?

If someone can explain it to me, in words I understand, that would be great.

[LabRat]

If you don't producer or perform your own original works then APRA isn't going to do anything for you.

APRA is an agency designed to look after artists in Australia. Then work in a similar way to a publishing company by making sure you collect all royalties owed to you. They also provide legal assistance if you need advice with contacts and so fourth. I'm an APRA member and I get paid royalties on my original works. The record label pays me royalties on what's purchased and broadcasted on radio, venues, tv etc. APRA are there to make sure they pay me what is owed to me and that the record label don't try to scam me

[RichoKidd]

Sweet. So as a rapper its something I should have. Say I get played on Triple J Unearthed, I'd receive royalties?

As A DJ, unless you are performing your own productions, its pointless?

[LabRat]

If you're releasing and performing original music then yes. If you're just performing as a DJ or doing some mc work than no.

You won't receive anything as a DJ. If you play or anyone else plays your own music while djing you're broadcasting publicly which entitles you to royalties. You don't get paid anything on unearthed.

Bottom line is, if you don't produce your own music you don't need it

[Cupe]

If you're rapping originals that you intend to release it might be worth it (and depends who owns the beat you're rapping over and whatever agreement exists there)

[RichoKidd]

When I purchase beats, I purchase full rights. So I own the entire production, lyrics, vocals and instrumental. If I release it as a single and it gets played on the radio, I am entitled to royalties yes?

What about internet radio?

[LabRat]

Dunno about that. I've never bought music for that purpose. Royalties can be claimed on internet radio if it's registered properly, otherwise it's pirate radio and they're up shit creek. When playing on radio in aus you're required to submit a track list. If not it means 1 of 2 things.

1, they pay a different fee to APRA every year to broadcast music (not sure what this is actually called)

2, it's pirate radio

[Cupe]

1, they pay a different fee to APRA every year to broadcast music (not sure what this is actually called)

2, it's ADJF radio