In 2016, Universal Publishing Production Music (UPPM) and SESAC -america-in-open-letter” target=”_blank”> a landmark agreement that sought to enhance songwriters’ revenues. , nearly a decade later, we reflect on the impact of such a transformative deal. The agreement facilitated a new era of compensation for songwriters, and the strategic partnership between UPPM and SESAC continues to thrive in 2025. This post will take you to the beginning of this influential agreement and explore its ongoing effects on the music industry. We’ll delve into the specifics of the agreement, its implications for songwriters, and how it has shaped the relationship between UPPM, SESAC, and ASCAP.
UPPM and SESAC: A Landmark Agreement
on April 1, 2016, the agreement between Universal Publishing Production Music (UPPM) and SESAC aimed to increase the compensation of UPPM songwriters. It covered those production music songs controlled by UPPM that were previously registered with ASCAP for U.S. exploitation. However, it did not affect royalties collected outside of the U.S.
Impact on Songwriters
“We’re proud that this agreement provides greater value to our songwriters and pleased to expand our relationship with SESAC,” said Gary Gross, Worldwide President of UPPM. He emphasized UPPM’s commitment to maximize writers’ revenues and provide as many creative opportunities as possible. Importantly, the agreement did not affect a songwriter’s decision to continue overall membership in ASCAP.
Continued ASCAP Involvement
Despite the new agreement, ASCAP continued to play a role. For the covered production music songs, ASCAP continued to pay songwriters royalties through March 31, 2016, as well as for “licenses in effect” through the expiration of those licenses.
About UPPM
Part of the Universal Music Publishing Group, Universal Publishing Production Music, whose U.S. companies include FirstCom Music and Killer Tracks, is the world’s leading music production featuring a music catalogue of unrivalled breadth and depth, crafted specifically for media use. UPPM produces imaginative music and builds creative partnerships to form a suite of labels that add depth and individuality to our catalogue – each with its own unique style and heritage. For more information, visit https://www.unippm.com.
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