SoundExchange collects and distributes certain U.S. digital performance royalties for sound recordings transmitted on qualifying noninteractive services, such as eligible satellite and internet radio uses.

How the rights and registrations work

Those payments involve featured performers and sound-recording rights owners and are distinct from interactive streaming master royalties paid through distributors. They are also distinct from composition-side public performance and mechanical royalties.

What a rights holder should do

Artists should confirm whether they are entitled to register as a featured artist, rights owner or both. Keep correct recording metadata and identify which service uses fall under the SoundExchange system before interpreting an apparent missing payment.

Original source and related Utopian services

Read the original guidance. Visit music publishing administration, royalty collection or contact Utopian for catalog-related assistance.

Published October 20, 2026. Educational information only. Confirm rights, contracts, current statutes and organization rules before making filings or licensing decisions.