Splits & co-writing
How to make a split sheet (with a free template)
What goes on a split sheet, why to start it before the write, and how co-writers split a song fairly, from a writer with hundreds of co-writes. Free template.
The Songstage Journal
Songwriting guides.
Splits, publishing, royalties, and the craft of getting songs done. Written by working songwriters.
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Publishing & PROs
How to register your songs with BMI or ASCAP (step by step)
A step-by-step guide to joining a PRO and registering every song you write with BMI or ASCAP, plus The MLC, and what to have ready so the money finds you.
Catalog & metadata
Free song catalog template: what every songwriter should track
A free song catalog spreadsheet for songwriters. Track every song's writers, splits, IPI numbers, registrations, and demos in one place so nothing slips.
All guides
Finishing songs
How to organize your voice memos so good ideas don't get lost
A simple system for organizing songwriting voice memos: how to name them, where to sort them, and a ten-minute weekly habit that keeps good ideas moving.
Publishing & PROs
What is an IPI number? (And how to find yours in 5 minutes)
Your IPI number is the ID your PRO and publishers use to find and pay you. Here's what it is, where to find yours, and how it's different from an ISWC or ISRC.
Publishing & PROs
Writer's share vs publisher's share, explained in plain English
Your song's performance money is split into a writer's share and a publisher's share. Here's who collects each half and how to make sure you're getting both.
Browse by topic
Splits & co-writing
How to split songs fairly, get the paperwork done before the write, and keep co-writing relationships healthy.
1 guide →
Publishing & PROs
What BMI, ASCAP, and publishers actually do, how to register your songs, and how to make sure your publishing money has somewhere to land.
3 guides →
Royalties
Where songwriting money comes from, who collects each stream of it, and how to stop leaving it on the table.
Coming soon
Catalog & metadata
Keep track of every song you've written, who's on it, and where it's registered, so you're ready when the opportunity shows up.
1 guide →
Finishing songs
The craft side. Getting ideas out of your voice memos and turning them into finished songs.
1 guide →