What should be in a split sheet?
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A split sheet is a written agreement that identifies each contributor to a song and establishes their specific ownership percentage of the publishing. It ensures everyone is paid correctly by Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) and prevents legal disputes regarding authorship.
- 1.List the legal name, stage name, and contact information for every person who contributed to the composition.
- 2.Specify the exact percentage of ownership for each writer, ensuring the total equals 100%.
- 3.Include each creator's Performance Rights Organization (PRO) affiliation (e.g., ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) and their Unique IPI/CAE number.
- 4.Record the song title, the date of creation, and clear signatures from all parties involved.
- ×Split sheets only cover the 'underlying composition' (lyrics/melody), not the 'master recording' unless specifically stated.
- ×Failing to include IPI numbers can result in unclaimed royalties sitting in 'black boxes' at collection societies.
- ×Oral agreements are rarely enforceable; always get signatures in writing (physical or digital).
Sign the split sheet in the room. Once a song becomes a hit, memories often fade and negotiations become significantly more difficult and expensive.
Based on AI training data — may not reflect current information.
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