There are several reasons why a writer might choose to take the D.I.Y option to publishing songs. One of these is that the writer will maintain control of their work, and have more power when it comes to negotiating deals for its use. This also of course means that the copyright owner will earn both the writer and publishers share of royalties for the work, an even more attractive prospect if you are a performer as well. As well as independence and higher earnings, it can sometimes be the best possible chance for a songwriter or artist to gain some success/exposure, especially in an industry which is currently dominated by Back Catalogues, and Reality TV stars.

Self Publishers may have to register a company name, and clear this with the relevant Performing Rights Organisation, which they will also have to join. Once set up as a publisher, duties will include duplicating CD’s, lyric sheets, and cover letters, distributing them to the industry, making/maintaining useful contacts, and generally promoting the music. There are also admin and business functions to undertake, to ensure songs are copyrighted, royalties are paid, and any publishing deals go through smoothly. Time, effort, money, and good communication skills are essential, but you could find this route to publishing music, an ultimately more rewarding one. Whichever route you do decide to take, hopefully luck will be on your side, and your music will get the exposure it deserves.