Eventually, a young composer who is *actually* getting their stuff performed has to make the decision of which performing rights organization to join. The US has 4 of them: BMI, ASCAP, SESAC (who?!), and SoundExchange (Who are they? Okay, maybe the Foo Fighters and Garbage are with them, so they might be cool.). So, actually, there are two performing rights organizations.
So, which one does a young composer pick? ASCAP? BMI? HOW DO YOU DECIDE?
I truly don’t know. Actually, no one knows. I joined BMI because my friends did. And my professors. Well, it seems like BMI is a USC thing. And, I quickly discovered that ASCAP is a CCM thing.
But, in the spirit of the holidays, I thought I’d share with you a certain post/press release that ASCAP conveniently posted. Truthfully, for you young composers out there, you *may* choose to base your decision on who has the coolest holiday songs.
ASCAP UNWRAPS TOP 25 HOLIDAY SONGS (of 2008)
Just found out that the Eurythmics version of “Winter Wonderland” is their top-performing holiday song. Jealous.
BMI.com | Unconventional Songs Add Spice To Your Company Holiday Parties
A note about this site: um, let’s see. This is a post from 2002. Here’s how it begins (it’s interesting):
“Looking for a rockin' good time at your next company holiday party? (Oh yeah.)
A mix of non-traditional holiday songs might be the key to lighten the mood and create a more memorable event. How about the Beach Boys' "Little Saint Nick," written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, or "Ho Ho Ho Who'd Be a Turkey At Christmas," written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, or "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)," written by John Lennon and Yoko Ono?” (I hate to break it to you John and Yoko, the war ain’t over.)
Hey, it’s your decision. I have no regrets with mine.
Anyway, have a great holiday!