PRS for Music opens dialogue with Bermuda businesses and musicians
Visit with Bermuda businesses identifies wide appreciation for music
PRS for Music, the organisation that represents over 100,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers, is listening to a wider group of businesses and musicians after a recent trip to Bermuda.
By law, businesses such as radio broadcasters, hotels, bars and clubs must first obtain permission from the owner of every piece of music that they intend to play. This means potentially having to contact thousands of songwriters, composers and music publishers worldwide to obtain their agreement. PRS for Music was established to simplify this process and provide businesses with a licence that allows them to legitimately use music.
Copyright law exists to protect the work of songwriters whose music is enjoyed the world over. PRS for Music is part of a network of affiliate organisations that work across 150 territories globally to ensure its members receive the royalties they are rightfully due.
International Licensing Managers Jackie Church and Ryan Homes spent a week in Hamilton, Bermuda from 25th – 29th November to meet with government officials, hoteliers, restaurateurs, broadcasters, concert promoters and representatives from The Bermuda Music Users' Group. They also met the Chewstick Foundation and the Musicians Federation to explain the benefits of PRS for Music membership to Bermudian songwriters.
We know that music is an important part of Bermudian culture and is core to many businesses like broadcasting, events and hospitality. We believe it’s only fair that songwriters are respected and can share in the benefits their music brings to such businesses.
It’s been a valuable experience to spend time with businesses and musicians to clear up any misconceptions and ensure clarity about the importance of music licensing in Bermuda. We were also delighted to meet Bermudian songwriters – both established and new. Some of these already receive royalties from the global music community through PRS for Music and we look forward to more Bermudian songwriters joining us. We are continuing a dialogue with representatives in Bermuda to ensure we properly understand concerns and work to address them.
If Bermudian businesses have any concerns or issues they would like to discuss they can get in touch on 1-877-457-0079 (toll free) or email bermuda@prsformusic.com.
About PRS for Music
PRS for Music is a world-leading music collective management organisation representing the rights of more than 165,000 talented songwriters, composers and music publishers around the globe. Headquartered in the UK, it works diligently on behalf of its members to grow and protect the value of their rights. With a focus on innovation and integrity, PRS for Music is redefining the global standard for music royalties to ensure creators are paid whenever their musical compositions and songs are streamed, downloaded, broadcast, performed and played in public. In 2022, PRS for Music collected £964m and paid out £836.2m in royalties. prsformusic.com
