Music Publishing

Course Number
MB-335
Description

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the music publishing industry, with a focus on the acquisition, administration, licensing, and monetization of copyrighted musical works. Students will explore the core business functions of a music publisher and the legal frameworks that govern the use and protection of songs. Topics will include the foundational principles of copyright and licensing, songwriter agreements, revenue streams, global rights administration, sync licensing, and the role of A&R in discovering and developing talent. Students will also examine the infrastructure that supports music publishing, including key stakeholders, data systems, and the international landscape of collection and exploitation. By the end of the course, students will have a working knowledge of how songs generate income and how publishers contribute to the commercial and creative success of songwriters.

Credits
2
Prerequisites
MB-211, MB-301 and LSOC-225
Required Of
MBUS majors in management track
Electable By
MBUS and MILI majors
Major Elective for
Contemporary Writing and Production
Music Business
Semesters Offered
Fall, Spring
Location
Boston
Los Angeles
Department
MBUS
Course Chair
Tonya Butler
Courses may not be offered at the listed locations or taught by the listed faculty for every semester. Consult my.berklee.edu to find course information for a specific semester.