I.MUSIC PUBLISHING BASICS

What is music publishing?
Music publishing is a global business encompassing the ownership, promotion and administration of songs. We are in the software business. Our software is words and music (typically a song or a production music track) which we license to record companies, radio, television, films, commercials, multimedia and which we sell in printed form and, more recently, for digital downloading. The song grows more valuable as it finds new uses by technological developers in printed music, film, radio, TV, records, tapes, CDs, multimedia and digital downloads.

What do music publishers do?
Music publishers acquire copyrights through the outright purchase of entire catalogues or even by buying just one song. Publishers also contract writers to exclusive songwriter agreements (i.e. every song they write while under contract is owned or partially owned by the publisher). In return for entire or partial ownership of songs, the publisher administers the rights, collects the income and splits the income with the writer. Finally, publishers can administer other peoples' songs and catalogues for which the publisher charges an administration fee.

How do publishers make money?
Publishers have three main sources of revenue: Mechanical royalties, which we receive from every record company when songs are licensed and sold. Performance royalties, which performing rights societies collect on behalf of the copyright owners whenever the songs are performed live or played on radio and TV or heard in hotels, bars, theatres, etc. Synchronization fees, which we charge for the use of our songs in movies, TV programs and commercials. Music publishers license music to film, television, advertising and multimedia clients and, in return, collect 'synch' fees.What is the difference between an administration and a co-publishing deal?The difference is ownership. In an administration deal, a publisher collects royalties on behalf of another publisher but does not own the copyright. As a fee for its services, the major publisher keeps a percentage of the money while the majority is split between the secondary publisher and the songwriter. In a co-publishing deal, the publisher and the writer's publishing company each own 50% of the copyright.

I am a songwriter - how can I get a publishing deal?
Your demo tape or CD needs to be heard by someone in our creative / A&R department.

What are the benefits of signing with a publisher?
There are many benefits. Traditionally, a publisher works closely with a songwriter to help him fine-tune his skills and coordinate collaborations with other songwriters and producers. If the songwriter is not a recording artist, the publisher can also try to place songs with another artist who can record the song. Administratively, a publisher will make sure your songs are licensed and monies are collected. Publishers also develop artists and can help a budding singer/songwriter secure a record deal. Most publishers also have specialized film/TV music departments who can promote and license your songs to film, TV, advertising agencies and multimedia. That's more money in your pocket. The right song in the right production also means added exposure. A song can become a hit after appearing in a popular film and can heighten the profile of the songwriter and recording artist.As the publishing industry has evolved in recent years, so has the role of the music publisher. Think of publishers as your support staff. We are there to assist in all marketing and promoting your songs. We will work closely with your entire team (manager, lawyer, record label) to ensure your songs are getting the attention they deserve. If necessary, we will also get involved in A&R, marketing, promotion or publicity either with your record label or through independent companies.

How does Roba Music Resources work?
If you cannot find your need in our database Email your musical requirements including as many project specifics as you can provide to info@roba.com or call us at +49 40 414108-0. If there is footage to look at, a background description, etc. this is very helpful in our identifying the best songs, writers, or artists for your needs so please send us this material as well if it's available. Traditionally, we will call back with questions if we have any. From there we will begin to send you music which is always delivered within 24 hours via CD, FTP or email. All of our services are free of charge.

I'm not familiar with the legalities of licensing music, commissioning writers, or artists, etc. Once we find a piece of music, can you help me through the process?
Absolutely. We will work out as many of the details as possible and put you in touch with any parties you may need to contact to license additional rights. This would include co-publishers, labels, artists, talent, etc. For more information please call our Licensing Hotline at +49 40 414108-0.

I can't seem to find music that works for my project and also fits my budget. Can you help?
If budgets are a priority, we always consider them before submitting music. In general, the more recognizable or popular the music is, the more expensive it is. Our goal is to provide you with the best musical options you can afford. In some cases your budget may not be substantial enough to license a well-known song. When this situation occurs, we will tell you, and if you are receptive, suggest other solutions.

What if I already know what song I am interested in licensing?
Once you have registered on our web site, you can submit a license request online by searching for the song you are interested in and pressing the "Request A Quote" button. Since processing your registration may take a day or two, if you have an urgent request you can call our Licensing Hotline at +49 414108-0 which will explain how to submit a license request via fax at -77

What is the difference between synchronization licensing and mechanical licensing?
Synchronization licensing involves the licensing of songs for use with visual images (i.e. films,commercials, etc.). Mechanical licensing involves the licensing of songs for audiotape or compact disc.

What is the difference between publishing and master licensing?
Publishing involves the licensing of a song copyright. Licensing a master involves a particular sound recording by an artist. You normally need both licences for synchronization.

I am a Roba author, co-publisher (edition) or subpublisher but cannot find my songs in the system
There might be two reasons: Either we are still updating your songs or we are missing some of your informations e.g. an audiofile. Please contact us directly!.

II. FILM /TV LICENSING

Why should I use music in my film or TV production?
There are no rules saying that you have to, but music can really make a difference in a film or TV production. Music can create a mood, spark emotions and enhance a scene by underscoring the action on screen. If done well, a song can be so connected with the film that every time a person hears it, he will be transported right back to the film and its characters. Think about when you hear the Village people classic "Y.M.C.A" - it will take you right back to the disco era.

But with so many songs, how can I choose the right one for my film/TV/commercial/multimedia production?
Try searching Roba Music Publishing's vast catalogue of over hundreds of thouthans of copyrights. A great place to start is our online music search engine. This state-of-the-art technology allows you to search for music based on criteria you have selected and the results can be heard as 40-second versions online.

If I am not sure about which song to use in my production, will Roba Music Publishing help me?
Of course!. Our search engine can help you narrow your options and choose the right song for your project but if you are still unsure or would like more assistance, our synchronization department will be happy to help you. Just call the Roba Music Publishing film/TV Department. We have a dedicated staff that can work with you one-on-one to determine the right song for your project, whether it be a film, TV program, commercial, multimedia or online.

I've found the song I want. What licenses do I need and how do I go about acquiring them?
To use any piece of commercial music from an artist with a publishing or record deal you will need to acquire two things: from the publisher -- a synchronization license for the right to the musical work contained in the master recording. from the record company -- if you are using the original recording, you will also need to acquire a master recording license from the label who owns the particular recording you wish to use. The publisher (and record company) will then get any necessary approvals and issue you a license for an appropriate fee. It's that simple. (you can search our "one stop shop" option to find out whether Roba can offer you both rights)

How can I license a song from Roba Music Publishing?
Whether you've chosen a song from our search engine or you already know which song you want to license, you can fill out a licensing request form directly from this website. After you fill out the form, click the 'submit' button or fax it to Roba Music Publishing on + 49 40 414108- 77 you can also send an email to info@roba.com and we'll contact you to work out the details. Remember, just filling out a licensing request form does not guarantee the song can be licensed to you. At the same time, the form alone does not obligate you to license a particular track.

How can I find out which record company to contact for a song's master license?
You can find the name of the record company which owns the sound recording of the song you want to license in our search engine. When you search for a particular song, the name of the label will be part of your search results.

How much will I be charged to license a song?
There aren't any rules or strict rates - the fee is always negotiable. Publishers consider a number of factors including (but not limited to): the rights required the period of the license (5 years, 1 year, life of copyright, perpetuity) the status of the song (Was it recorded by a popular artist? Is it a current hit?) the song's use and prominence in the production (Will the song be played during the opening credits? Will it be played in the background of a 10-second scene only?) the overall production budget where the film will be released whether the song will be included on a film soundtrack album Keep in mind that in some cases the song may not always be available for licensing.

Would a roba-published artist or composer write an original piece of music for my production?
Many artists and composeres would welcome the opportunity to work on film projects. Please do not hesitate to contact us with the project details and we will be more than happy to approach them on your behalf.

III. SAMPLE CLEARANCE

What is a sample?
A sample is the process of dubbing portions of previously recorded music into new recordings.

What if I want to include a sample of a roba-published work in a new work I am writing?
You will need to approach Roba Music Publishing for permission. You can print out a sample clearance form (PDF) directly from the website www.roba.com and send it our office. In addition to the form, please also include a cassette recording of the new work you have written and a copy of the work sampled. If you have taken the sample directly from a recording, you will also need to approach the record company involved.

What happens next?
We will assess the new work and, providing the original writers give their consent, we will approve the use. Approval is usually subject to Roba Music Publishing retaining a percentage share of your new work.

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