[BC] ASCAP and BMI and Rights

[Larry Fuss]

>That's not the point.  The broadcast of a song should be considered as a
>"casual performance" and exempt from performing rights fees.  

>"casual" vs what?

Performing music at an event for which admission is charged (a concert); or
using the song specifically to sell product ("Like A Rock" in the Chevy
commercials).  

> Question for those who know more than I:  how much does a
songwriter/composer make for CD sales of a song and how much
additional coin does that same person make when the song is
played on the radio?

I only know one songwriter.  He tells me that unless you have a monster hit,
you make nothing from ASCAP or BMI.  But ASCAP and BMI spend tons of money
putting out slick glossy magazines and other non-essential material that
just talk about how great they are.  Personally, I think the songwriter
should sell their song to the artist and make their money that way.  After
all, it is the artist that derives the most benefit from a good song, not
the radio station.  We're just playing music to fill time between
commercials.  We make nothing from the song itself.  My songwriter friend
tends to agree with me.  He says the current system is designed to keep
money flowing to those in power.  

LF