Songwriters can be added as either collecting or non-collecting based on their publishing agreements and permissions. Collecting songwriters receive royalties through CD Baby Pro Publishing, while non-collecting songwriters do not. Read on for guidance on how to decide which option applies.

When to add as a 'Collecting' songwriter

If all of the following apply, you should add someone as a 'Collecting Songwriter':

• The songwriter doesn't have an agreement with another publisher or publishing administrator for the track.
• If adding a co-writer:
  • They have given you permission to sign the Publishing Administration Addendum on their behalf.
  • Read more about the Publishing Administration Addendum.
• The release is a Legacy Pro Publishing release.
  • Collecting songwriters will receive performance royalties through CD Baby Pro.

When to add as a 'Non-collecting' songwriter

• If the any of the above don't apply, you should add someone as a 'Non-collecting Songwriter':
• If none of the songwriters meet the above requirements, your release is ineligible for CD Baby Pro Publishing. 
  • In that case, you should submit a request to downgrade to Standard.

Things to note

• Collecting songwriters require full permission and no conflicting publishing agreements.
• Don't add 'Collecting' songwriters to CDB Boost releases. Boost allows non-collecting songwriters to opt in for mechanical and digital performance royalties.
• Non-collecting songwriters can still benefit from Boost’s royalty collection services.