The Split Sheet Explained: How to Protect Your Music Rights and Royalties

Split Sheets Explained: How to Protect Your Music Rights and Royalties

Split sheets are essential legal documents that play a crucial role in the music industry, particularly concerning the ownership rights of the composition of a song. They serve to outline the specific ownership percentages of a song or piece of work among its contributors, such as songwriters, producers, and any other individuals who have played a significant role in its creation. By defining these rights clearly, split sheets help prevent disputes over ownership in the future.

What's Included on a Split Sheet?

At a minimum, a comprehensive split sheet should include these key elements:

• Names of all contributors involved in the work

  • This ensures that each individual’s contributions are acknowledged formally.

• The roles of each contributor—whether they are the primary writer, a co-writer, or a producer.

  • These roles clarify the nature of each person’s input into the creation of the music.

• Percentages of ownership assigned to each contributor

  • This allocation is typically agreed upon by all parties involved and must reflect the extent of each individual’s contribution. For instance, if one songwriter has taken the lead in composing the lyrics while another has primarily crafted the melody, their shares may differ significantly, depending on the agreed terms.

  • Mechanical and Performance royalties of a song are split into two sections writer's (50%)and publisher's (50%) share. The writer's share is shared by lyricists and composers. According to the Royalty Exchange, the publisher's share is often given to the publisher of the writer/composer if they are signed to one. According to BMI, If no publishers are involved, the publisher's share goes to writers on the project. Performance royalties are collected by PROs, learn more about them by clicking here.

• The performing rights organizations (PROs) registrations associated with each contributor.

  • This ensures that all parties are aware of the performance rights affiliations that may influence royalty collection and distribution, ultimately providing a safety net for intellectual property.

  • This includes the IPI # aka Interest Party Information Number given by the PRO. You'll need this so contributors can be found when distributing royalties.

• The date of creation is also a vital component, as it establishes a timeline for the work and its corresponding rights.

• Signatures

  • This step confirms that all contributors acknowledge and accept the terms laid out within the document.

Understanding split sheets is paramount for artists looking to protect their intellectual rights and ensure fair compensation for their artistic contributions. By clearly defining ownership stakes, these documents contribute to a smoother collaboration process, allowing all contributors to focus on their creative endeavors without the fear of future legal complications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with split -sheets

1. waiting to complete the split sheet

Artists tend to worry about the business later and even forget until days before or the day of the release to discuss ownership. This could lead to confusion, disputes, and sometimes legal issues. During or directly after the writing session is the right time to complete a split sheet, while everyone is clear on each other's contributions.

2. Not getting everyone's signature

Signatures signify that everyone is clear on the agreement and that it is in effect and can't be contested later. Collect all contributor's handwritten or digital signatures before the session disbands.

3. assuming and Not discussing percentages

Ownership is better discussed than left up in the air. Having the assumption that everything will be split evenly is counterproductive because every song is different and agreements vary by collaborator. There are standards and norms, but not everyone operates the same. Be sure to be transparent when discussing percentages.

4. leaving personal and contact info blank

Your split sheet should include names, PRO information, email addresses, and publisher details if applicable. Not having this information can lead to a delay or loss of royalty payments as well as licensing opportunities.

5. Not Keeping a Copy

Everyone should get a copy - digital or physical - once the agreement is signed. You need to have proof of ownership in case anything were to arise.

✨ Tip: Use a digital split sheet tool or keep a template on your phone so you’re always ready to document contributions—perfect for planned or impromptu sessions! Let us save you some time by purchasing our 99-cent split-sheet template!

References:

Royalty Exchange - "The Songwriter and Music Publisher Relationship: Part IV"

BMI - " BMI Member FAQs - Publishing"