In the music business residual/passive income comes from music publishing. Below is my response to a question about which music business organization should an emerging songwriter and music producer join.ASCAP, BMI, SESAC are PROs -performing rights organizations not music publishing companies. As a songwriter you may join any one organization at a time. As a music publisher you may join all three at the same time. Some of the organizations use to charge an annual fee, however to the best of my knowledge all of the pros have done away with any fees in the U.S.
Depending on which of the major cities you are either in or live closer to may determine which pro is best suited for you.
Here are some points to consider before joining:
1) How often does the pro in your area have regular events for its' members?
2) How often does the pro in your area have regular events for non-members?
3) When you call the local office how are you treated?
4) When you call the main office how are you treated?
5) Which of the organizations have annual music conferences for its members?
6) Which of the organizations have developmental programs for its members?
7) Which of the organizations have a robust website with information to assist you?
8) Which of the pros have health, dental, eye, disability and equipment insurance?
9) Which of the pros have community outreach programs?
10) Which of the pros have wealth building opportunities for emerging hit makers?
11) Which of the pros seem to want to place emerging writers w/ established ones?
12) Which of the pros have offices you can walk into to speak w/ someone direct?
13) Which of the pros seem to have regular events?
14) Which of the pros seem to sponsor various music conferences and music showcases?
15) Which of the pros have an open door policy?
16) What pro are the hit makers you respected signed to?
These are a few things to consider. Again depending on the city you're in may determine which PRO is right for you an your situation.
For further details on the subject you'll want to download the Music Industry Connection Book Series and attend the Radio Music Conference in Albany, GA on SATURDAY, JULY 19, 2008.
