What are Performance Rights?

Performance rights are the rights that allow a musical composition to be performed or played publicly. These rights apply when music is broadcast, streamed, or played in public places such as radio stations, television programs, concerts, restaurants, clubs, or online platforms.

When a song is publicly performed, the copyright holders of the musical composition—typically the songwriter and publisher—are entitled to receive performance royalties. These royalties are collected and distributed by organizations known as performance rights organizations (PROs).

Performance rights ensure that songwriters and publishers are compensated whenever their music is publicly played or broadcast. This system helps support creators by providing ongoing revenue whenever their compositions are used in public performances or media broadcasts.