Songwriter Survival Guide: Publishing, Copyright & Royalties Masterclass with Laura May (May Music Limited)

What You'll Learn

Writing great songs is only part of the journey. Understanding how those songs are protected, registered, and monetised can make a significant difference to your long-term career and income.

In this exclusive masterclass, Laura May will break down the often-confusing world of music publishing into clear, practical information that every songwriter should know. Whether you're releasing music independently, writing for other artists, producing tracks, or collaborating with co-writers, this session will help you better understand your rights and opportunities.

Understanding Songwriting Rights

Learn the difference between copyright, publishing rights, writer's share, and publisher's share. We'll look at how ownership works, what happens when multiple writers are involved, and why getting this right from the start is so important.

How Songwriters Get Paid

Many writers are unaware of the different ways songs generate income. This session will explore the main royalty streams available to songwriters, where that money comes from, and the steps you can take to ensure you're not missing out on earnings you're entitled to.

Registering and Protecting Your Songs

From song registrations to collecting society memberships, we'll cover the practical actions every songwriter should take to protect their work and ensure it can be tracked and paid correctly around the world.

The Role of a Music Publisher

What does a publisher actually do? Laura will explain the role of music publishing companies, how they support songwriters, collect royalties, create opportunities, and help writers develop sustainable careers.

Publishing Deals Explained

Publishing agreements can seem intimidating, but understanding the basics is essential. We'll explore the most common deal types, what they mean in practice, and the key things songwriters should be aware of when considering an agreement.

Built for Songwriters at Every Stage

You don't need a record deal, a manager, or even a released track to benefit from this session. If you write songs, create music, or collaborate with other artists, the knowledge shared in this masterclass will help you make informed decisions about your music and your future.

By the end of the session, you'll have a much clearer understanding of how publishing works, how songwriters earn money, and how to take control of your rights, catalogue, and career with confidence.