Insights
Developments in music publishing.
Relevant developments and resources from across music publishing, royalty administration, and the organizations that shape the industry.
These are external resources curated by Stabrook Publishing for context and reference. Stabrook does not author or publish the linked material — each card identifies the original source, and links open the publisher’s site directly.
01
Royalty Administration
Resources and developments directly related to royalty collection, registrations, catalog data, matching, claiming, mechanical royalties, and publishing administration.
Is Your Catalog Ready for Upcoming MLC Distributions?
BMI · August 13, 2026
BMI outlines steps songwriters and publishers can take to review catalog data, identify unclaimed shares, and address unmatched mechanical royalties ahead of planned 2027 distributions.
Read SourceTracking Historical Mechanical Royalties
The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) · Updated 2026
The MLC’s Historical Royalties Dashboard provides visibility into historical digital mechanical royalties and the amounts that have been matched and distributed to rightsholders.
Explore the Data02
Industry Updates
Relevant developments affecting music publishing, royalties, licensing, copyright administration, and the systems used by songwriters, publishers, and rights holders.
Inside The MLC’s Royalty Distribution
The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) · June 2026
The MLC’s distribution data provides a practical look at matching rates, previously unmatched royalties, unclaimed ownership shares, and the role catalog data plays in royalty distribution.
Read SourceBMI Expands Its Music Data and Royalty Infrastructure
BMI · August 2026
BMI’s August update highlights developments in royalty distribution, licensing, and audiovisual music data as music usage continues to expand across platforms.
Read SourceCopyright Office Continues MLC Designation
U.S. Copyright Office · June 3, 2026
Following its periodic review, the U.S. Copyright Office continued The MLC’s designation to administer the blanket statutory mechanical license.
Read Source03
AI & Music
Developments in generative AI and music where they connect to licensing, compensation, copyright, and rights administration.
The Fight Over Who Profits From AI Music
NPR / Planet Money · August 18, 2026
A look at the growing debate over generative AI and music, including questions surrounding licensing, compensation, copyright, and who should benefit as AI technology becomes more involved in music creation and use.
Read SourceFoundational resources
Authoritative references
Stable educational resources from official organizations that explain the frameworks underlying music publishing and royalty administration.
Understanding the Music Modernization Act
U.S. Copyright Office
The U.S. Copyright Office explains the Music Modernization Act, the blanket mechanical license, and the framework governing certain digital mechanical royalties.
Learn MoreHave a question about royalties or publishing?
Stabrook Publishing helps songwriters and rights holders with catalog, registration, and royalty questions. Reach out to learn more.