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A performer refers to an instrumentalist or vocalist on a recording, each being entitled to receive neighbouring rights royalties.
Performers are classified as either “featured” or “non-featured”.
A “featured performer” is typically the lead vocalist, title artist, regular band members, or a featured guest artist, while non-featured performers are typically session musicians or background vocalists.
Both sound recording owners and performers on recordings are entitled to neighbouring rights royalties. Neighbouring rights are split 50/50 between recording owners ( AKA “master owners” ) and performers. In Canada, of that 50%, 40% is distributed to “featured performers” and 10% to “non-featured performers”.
It is important for Canadian performers to register with Re:Sound or its member organizations such as (ACTRA, RACS, MROC, or Artisti).
See also – Featured Performer, Master Owner, Session Musician.
Canadian or American session musicians should also look at https://www.afmsagaftrafund.org for unclaimed funds from recordings.

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