Before we can register your works with collection societies, we need Performance Rights Organization (PRO) affiliation details for all collecting songwriters. You’ll be asked, “Are you currently or have you ever been affiliated with a Performance Rights Organization (PRO)?” Your answer will determine which form you’ll need to complete. See below for guidance on which option applies to you.

What if I'm currently affiliated with a PRO?

• Select this option if you are already affiliated with a PRO that CD Baby works with.
• You’ll need to provide:
  • Your PRO name (e.g., ASCAP, BMI, SOCAN, PRS, etc.)
  • Your IPI or CAE number
  • The email address used for your PRO account
  • Your publishing affiliation details (if applicable)
• Once this information is submitted, CD Baby can begin the process of registering your works for publishing royalty collection.

What if I'm not currently affiliated with a PRO?

• If you’ve never been affiliated with a PRO before, please first affiliate yourself directly as a songwriter with your local Performance Rights Organization.
• Once your application has been approved, return to your CD Baby account and:
  • Go to the Pro Publishing Admin section.
  • Select “I am currently affiliated with a PRO.”
  • Complete the form with your new PRO information.
• Note: It can take several weeks for your PRO to finalize your application and assign you an IPI/CAE number. Please contact the PRO directly for updates on your membership status.

What if I'm not currently affiliated with a PRO, but have been in the past?

• If you were affiliated with a PRO in the past but have since ended that affiliation, CD Baby can't affiliate you with a new PRO on your behalf.
• You’ll need to:
  • Affiliate directly with a PRO from this list of PROs
  • Wait until your new membership has been approved and you have received your IPI/CAE number.
  • Return to your CD Baby account and select “I am currently affiliated with a PRO.”
• It may take several weeks for your new PRO to process your application and assign your IPI/CAE number.

Why can’t CD Baby affiliate me if I’ve been affiliated with a PRO before?

• Re-affiliation between PROs requires an official Letter of Relinquishment (LOR) or release form from your previous PRO. This must be submitted to your new PRO directly — PROs do not allow publishers like CD Baby to manage this process on behalf of songwriters.