I'm in the process of sending my songs to various record labels. Do I need to be a member of PRS or MCPS at this stage?
No. The time to consider PRS membership is when one of your songs has been broadcast, performed live, or played in public. Similarly you should consider MCPS membership when one of your songs has been released by a record company (other than your own).
I've just produced some tracks for my friend's band. Should I join either MCPS or PRS?
No. Membership of both societies is only relevant to the composers and songwriters of the music. However, if a writer agrees that your production work justifies a writing credit on their songs, then you should consider applying.
All the members of my band contribute to the writing of our songs. Is it possible for us to join as a group, or must we join individually?
In respect of both MCPS and PRS, each songwriter within a band needs to apply for individual membership.
Someone has released a cover of my song on their album; am I likely to receive a royalty?
If it's a commercial release, mechanical royalties will be due for the use of work. If you are currently unpublished you should consider becoming a writer member of MCPS in order to receive these royalties.
I've just joined a covers band which has been offered a monthly residency at our local pub. Can we earn any money by becoming PRS members?
No. Any royalties generated by these performances would be distributed to the original songwriters/publishers of the works being played.
How much does it cost to join MCPS and PRS?
Current admission fees are:
MCPS: £50 for writer membership / £50 for publisher membership.
PRS: £100 for writer membership / £400 for publisher membership.
Is there an annual fee?
Neither society charges an annual membership fee.