The music industry operates on a fundamental principle that performing rights income is split 50/50 between writers and publishers. This split is so entrenched that PRS pays these shares separately - your writer's share always comes directly to you, regardless of any publishing deal you might have. This protection ensures writers always receive at least half their performing rights income.
Publishers receive their 50% share directly from PRS, not through you. This is different from mechanical rights, where publishers typically collect 100% from MCPS and then pay your share according to your contract terms. The beauty of the system is that your writer's share is protected and cannot be assigned to anyone else, providing crucial income security.
When negotiating publishing deals, you might see different splits like 75/25 or 80/20 in your favour, but these only affect how the publisher's 50% share is divided between you. Understanding this split structure is essential for tracking your income accurately and ensuring you're receiving everything you're owed. It also helps in negotiations - any deal trying to take your writer's share should be rejected immediately as it goes against fundamental industry principles.
