Greetings Reggaeologists!!
The sweet sounds of reggae have always carried messages of liberation, but today we're exploring a different kind of freedom—the financial liberation that comes from understanding and protecting your musical rights. Pour yourself some mint tea and let's reason together about one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked aspects of our music: publishing.
The Tale of Two Kings
The story of reggae publishing is perhaps best told through the contrasting legacies of two of our greatest artists. On one hand, we have Bob Marley, whose musical legacy continues to sustain generations through well-structured publishing arrangements. On the other, we have the Prince of Crown Heights, Dennis Brown, whose magnificent catalog, despite its cultural significance, didn't generate the financial returns it deserved.
The difference wasn't in the music—both were masters of their craft. The difference lay in how their publishing was handled, a lesson that still echoes through Kingston's streets today.
Understanding Jamaica's "Haggler" System
If you've spent any time around Jamaica's music scene, you've heard of the "haggler" system. It's as much a part of our musical history as the one-drop rhythm, but like a badly tuned guitar, it's hit many wrong notes over the years. The system of quick cash advances in exchange for rights has left too many of our elders watching their music generate wealth for others while they struggle to keep the lights on.
Building Your Musical Foundation
Think of publishing like building a house—you need a solid foundation before you can raise the walls. Your IPI number is your land title, your ISRC codes are your building permits, and your split sheets and producer agreements are the architectural plans that keep everything standing strong.
But here's where many artists lose their way: they think registering with a PRO is like putting a roof on an empty lot. The truth is, collecting royalties is more like tending a garden. You must plant the seeds (register your works), water them regularly (track your plays), and be patient while they grow (understand payment cycles).
The New Dawn of DIY
The digital age has given us new tools, but wisdom is knowing how to use them. Yes, you can record in your bedroom studio and distribute worldwide, but don't let the ease of creation blind you to the importance of protection.
Every time you create a tune, you're not just making music—you're creating a legacy that could feed your grandchildren.
Wisdom for the Journey..
Consider this: when you're in the studio laying down tracks, you're not just creating art—you're building assets. Every hook, every riddim, every sweet melody is a brick in the house of your future. But without proper publishing protection, you're building that house on sand.
The veterans of our industry have learned this lesson the hard way.
They've watched their music travel the world while their bank accounts stayed home. Don't let history repeat itself. Find yourself a solid publishing administrator who understands both the music and the business.
Think of them as your musical legal counsel, helping you navigate the complex waters of the industry.
A Call to Action
As we look to the future of reggae, let's honor our musical heritage by protecting it properly. Before you release your next track, pause and ask yourself: Have I secured my rights? Have I properly acknowledged all collaborators? Am I thinking about my grandchildren's children when I sign these papers?
Remember, family: publishing isn't just paperwork—it's your musical pension plan. It's the difference between your music being a fleeting moment and a lasting legacy.
Forward Ever
The rhythm of change is upon us. Let's make sure our business practices are as revolutionary as our music. Your art deserves to not just be heard, but to provide for you and yours, from now into the future.
Until our next reasoning session, keep your rights tight and your future bright.
It’s Laing..I’m Out.
Lloyd Laing is a Music Business Consultant and Advocate for Fair Pay. Follow @Reggaeology Everywhere. Visit lloydlaing.com for consultations and workshops or reggaeology.com to keep up to date on the changes in music industry.
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