FAQs
Your questions answered.

The world of music can be complicated and confusing. We understand that, and transparency is our priority.

Why do I even need a publishing company?
Publishing is at the core of legally copyrighting and protecting your works, and is the main source and system of being able to collect any income deriving from its use. Quite simply it is the only system legally recognised worldwide in which you can secure protection and earnings from ALL possible income streams for use of your works. A publishing company has traditionally been the main 'instrument' in collection of monies earned on those copyrights. With ever-changing technology, the world of music copyright and collection of income derived has become an increasingly large minefield, making it more important then ever.
Why do I need First Music Control? Can't I just set up my own publishing company and collect my own fees?
Yes, you could. But the amount of effort, expertise and the costs involved make it prohibitively expensive for all but the largest acts – and even they get someone else to do it. At First Music Control, we are saying, 'Why wait for someone to offer you a service you can get for yourself?' Our service is the only one of its kind.
I'm just starting out. What do I get for my money?
This money covers all of the set-up costs and is the only time you make a direct payment to us. Think of the initial cost as an investment that ensures that from that point you are able to receive all the royalties due to you. Without securing Publishing you are shutting the door on future income.
Is the 15%* administration fee common?
This percentage is very competitive, represents great value, and is only payable on monies that are due to you. Most publishing deals traditionally are 20-25%. Our admin agreement is very competitive and works closer to what your needs will be, as you are keeping the control and ownership of your rights without being tied down. The 15% is fair for all concerned and enables us to be efficient and transparent in protecting, tracking, collection, distribution and accounting on your catalogue.
What scope do First Music Control have?
We create a professional framework that gets you what's yours. All income streams are found and collected. We act globally and it does not matter where our clients are based.
Where does the money come from?
Streams can include CD sales, broadcasts [radio; TV; film; internet; downloads; mobile phones], live performance and more. See the Jargon Buster links on the About page for more info.
If someone buys or broadcasts my music, what financial returns can I expect?
There are all different licenses allocated for broadcasts and different usages for music – some well paid, some not very well paid, some territories un-policeable and therefore free. It really does depend on where your music goes. The point is to be able to give permission where you can and cast the widest net possible to be able to catch what you can armed with the best knowledge available.
What knowledge do I need?
None, the First Music Control system will automatically register all your musical rights and automatically remit statements and monies to you.
If I sign up do I still own my music?
Yes. First Music Control only acts on your behalf - we never have any kind of ownership of your material.
What if I get offered a publishing deal in the future?
No problem. You own all of the rights to your music and the publishing company which can be transferred automatically. Due to the incremental nature of publishing First Music Control would have a collection period to allow it to collect monies in the pipeline but all existing – and of course new – works would be ascribed to your new company.
How does any money I've earned reach me?
Once income streams are found all royalties will be accounted to you via six-monthly statements, with any money above the £50 threshold paid directly to your supplied bank account, either by transfer or cheque.
What other First Music Control services are available?
Plenty! We can work with you on record label set up, exploitation of catalogue, PR services and more. See the links from the Why Should You Join page.
What do I need to set up my own music publishing company?
All you need to think of is a company name, decide on who will run the company, (directors) - and who will own the company, (shareholders). Any money invested belongs to the company. The company share investment can be as little as £1. A director can also be a shareholder. You also need a company secretary or a director who will fulfill these secretarial duties. First Music Control do offer this as an optional service at a fee of £195* per annum, but you can do this yourself.
I see that First Music Control is a UK company, do we have to be British to use your services?
No. First Music Control's publishing administration covers worldwide collections. We do set up British Companies for you, but non UK residents can be directors and share holders. You just need to have a UK address that you can use as the registered office. We also offer our company secretary service, and this can provide you with an address that you can use for your registered office. There are also a number of other companies that offer company registered address services.

* plus VAT where applicable

Jargon Buster

Publishing Company

In the music industry, a music publisher (or publishing company) is responsible for ensuring the songwriters and composers receive payment when their compositions are used commercially. Through an agreement called a publishing contract, a songwriter or composer "assigns" the copyright of their composition to a publishing company. In return, the company licenses compositions, helps monitor where compositions are used, collects royalties and distributes them to the composers. They also secure commissions for music and promote existing compositions to recording artists, film and television.