June 2009
Dear Songwriter, Composer and Publisher:
At the CISAC World Copyright Summit held last week in Washington, D.C., I had the opportunity to participate in the opening panel, which focused on the new administration’s agenda in the fields of copyright and intellectual property. An audience of some 600 international copyright executives listened to the discussion, during which they learned that the administration has appointed music copyright professionals to several key posts, which bodes well for proponents of creators’ rights. Along with other speakers, I emphasized the importance of the performance right in digital audio/visual downloads and reinforced the message that copyright law should be technology-neutral. Others who spoke would have you believe that this is not the case and they, too, have a voice in this arena. Most importantly, the creative community must remain united in our fight to protect copyright.
We were also buoyed by comments made by some of the most important legislators involved in copyright protection: Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Representative John Conyers (D-MI), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee; Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL), Chairman of the House Intellectual Property Caucus; and Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, all delivered eloquent remarks on the need for strong protection for the works of songwriters, composers and music publishers. In all, more than 96 speakers from 18 countries discussed the importance of copyright protection and the distribution of creative content in the digital era.
As part of BMI’s ongoing efforts to provide our songwriters, composers and publishers with the most efficient business tools available in the performing right arena, we recently launched a redesigned version of our award-winning website, bmi.com, which features a broad array of digital tools designed specifically for the creative community.
BMI.com offers the industry’s most advanced suite of web-based tools, allowing you to update your mailing and e-mail addresses, view your royalty statements and catalog, register new works, sign up for direct deposit of your royalties or take advantage of exclusive offers such as the US Bank Loan Program and “The Card,” which allows songwriters and composers who do not currently have a bank account to enjoy many of the advantages of an ATM card for access to their BMI royalties. Detailed guides to BMI royalty payment methodology, business forms and other vital information are all available at the click of a mouse, allowing you to transact business in the most timely, efficient manner possible.
One of the highlights of the revamped website is a special “creators” section that offers advice and opinion on the business of songwriting; a series of discounts for everything from subscriptions and educational opportunities to professional gear and financial services; and career opportunities, including information on showcases, seminars and other events that can help you achieve success. The new bmi.com also offers easy access to BMI’s Songwriter101.com website and social networking for songwriters and composers on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn and similar sites. Additional features include the online version of MusicWorld magazine, which focuses on songwriters and their craft; daily news updates about both BMI and industry events; and an online search engine that allows you to access detailed information on BMI’s catalog of more than 6.5 million musical works.
I urge you take full advantage of these tools and benefits, and welcome your feedback, as we strive to help you keep your career on the fast track and maximize your performing right income.
Our congratulations go to Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff, Colbie Caillat, Polow Da Don, T-Pain, Alan Chang, Matchbox Twenty’s Paul Doucette and Brian Yale, Chris Brown, Maroon 5’s Adam Levine, Taylor Swift, David Newman, Mike Post and all those honored at the BMI Pop and Film/TV Awards, held last month in Los Angeles.
My best wishes for a relaxed, rewarding summer season. I hope you have the opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends during the coming months.
Sincerely,
Del Bryant
President
Chief Executive Officer