SOCAN, or the Society of Composers, Authors, and Music Publishers of Canada, plays an essential role in supporting Canadian musicians. As a performance rights organization, SOCAN ensures that music creators and publishers are paid whenever their work is performed, streamed, broadcast, or otherwise publicly used. Here’s how it works:
When a song is played on the radio, performed live, streamed online, or used in a movie or television show, SOCAN tracks these performances, collects royalties from businesses and broadcasters, and then distributes payments to the songwriters, composers, and music publishers who are entitled to them. This makes it possible for creators to earn money from their music, even if they’re not performing it themselves.
SOCAN also helps musicians by advocating for their rights and supporting the value of their work in the evolving digital landscape. Additionally, SOCAN offers grants, resources, and networking opportunities to help emerging artists grow and develop their careers. Musicians benefit from SOCAN’s data and technology, too, which allow for accurate tracking and faster royalty payments.
In short, SOCAN enables Canadian musicians to earn a fair income from their creative efforts, providing vital financial support and helping to sustain a vibrant and diverse music industry in Canada.
