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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) and ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) are both performing rights organizations (PROs) that collect and distribute royalties for music performance. While they serve a similar purpose, they are distinct organizations with different membership structures and operational policies. Therefore, a songwriter or publisher can be a member of and collect royalties from both BMI and ASCAP.

Key Facts

BMI and ASCAP are the two largest performing rights organizations in the United States.
Both organizations license the public performance of music and collect royalties on behalf of their members.
Songwriters and publishers can be affiliated with both BMI and ASCAP simultaneously.
Each PRO has its own unique repertoire of works, meaning a song registered with BMI will generate royalties through BMI, and a song registered with ASCAP will generate royalties through ASCAP.
The choice of which PRO to join (or if to join both) depends on individual circumstances, such as where the songwriter/publisher primarily operates and the types of music they create.

Overview

In the complex ecosystem of music rights and royalties, understanding the roles of various organizations is crucial for songwriters, composers, publishers, and anyone involved in the creation and dissemination of music. Two of the most prominent organizations in the United States are BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) and ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers). Both are non-profit performing rights organizations (PROs) that play a vital role in ensuring creators are compensated when their music is publicly performed. They act as intermediaries, licensing music to businesses and broadcasters that play music, collecting the resulting fees, and distributing those royalties to their members.

The question of whether one can be affiliated with both BMI and ASCAP is a common one, and the answer is a definitive yes. These organizations, while competing for members and licenses, are not mutually exclusive. A songwriter, composer, or music publisher can be a member of both BMI and ASCAP. This dual membership allows creators to maximize their royalty income by ensuring that performances of their works are covered regardless of which PRO holds the license for the particular venue or broadcaster. The fundamental principle is that a song is typically registered with only one PRO at a time for its performing rights, meaning a specific song will generate royalties through either BMI or ASCAP based on its registration. However, an individual can have some songs registered with BMI and others with ASCAP, or even have different co-writers registered with different PROs for the same song.

How It Works

Licensing: Both BMI and ASCAP issue licenses to various music users, including radio and television stations, live music venues, bars, restaurants, streaming services, and digital platforms. These licenses grant permission for the public performance of the vast catalog of music represented by the PRO.
Royalty Collection: When a licensed entity plays music from a PRO's repertoire, they report the music played to the PRO. The PRO then collects fees based on the type of license and the usage. These fees are a primary source of income for creators.
Distribution: After collecting royalties, BMI and ASCAP process the information and distribute the collected fees to their respective members – the songwriters, composers, and music publishers – based on the documented performances of their works. The distribution process involves complex tracking and accounting systems.
Membership: Songwriters and publishers can choose to join either BMI or ASCAP, or both. There is an application process for each organization, and members agree to certain terms and conditions regarding the representation of their performing rights.

Key Comparisons

Feature	BMI	ASCAP
Founding Year	1939	1914
Membership Structure	Open to all songwriters, composers, and publishers. Often perceived as more accessible.	Historically has had a more selective application process, though now largely open.
Repertoire	Represents a vast and diverse catalog of music across all genres.	Also represents a vast and diverse catalog, known for its strong presence in certain genres and historical significance.
Royalty Splits (Co-writers)	Typically allows for co-writers to be affiliated with different PROs.	Generally allows for co-writers to be affiliated with different PROs.

Why It Matters

Maximizing Income: By being a member of both BMI and ASCAP, creators can ensure they are eligible to collect royalties from a broader range of music users and performances. For instance, a bar that has a BMI license will pay BMI for the performance of BMI-affiliated songs, while a restaurant with an ASCAP license will pay ASCAP for ASCAP-affiliated songs.
Comprehensive Representation: Different broadcasters and venues may choose to license with either BMI or ASCAP, or both. Being affiliated with both ensures that your music is covered and eligible for royalties across a wider spectrum of performance opportunities.
Global Reach: Both BMI and ASCAP have reciprocal agreements with similar organizations in other countries. This means that when your BMI or ASCAP-affiliated music is performed internationally, you can still collect royalties through these agreements. Being with both PROs can expand this global reach.
Support for Artists: Beyond royalty collection, these organizations often offer resources, educational programs, and advocacy for their members, contributing to the overall health and sustainability of the music industry.

In conclusion, the question isn't about choosing between BMI and ASCAP, but rather understanding how to best leverage both to your advantage as a music creator. The ability to be a member of both organizations provides a significant benefit, allowing for more comprehensive royalty collection and ensuring that your creative works are recognized and rewarded across the diverse landscape of music performance. For any serious songwriter, composer, or publisher, exploring affiliation with both BMI and ASCAP is a strategic step towards maximizing their earnings and ensuring their music's full potential is realized.