SAMRO celebrates 60th anniversary with billions disbursed in royalties

SAMRO’s primary role is to administer performing rights on behalf of its members, which it does by licensing music users through the collection of licence fees that are then distributed as royalties.

“As we celebrate 60 years since the establishment of SAMRO in December 1961, we must also reflect on the significant milestone of successfully collecting and distributing R7bn in royalties to our members,” SAMRO chairperson Nicholas Maweni said. “If nothing else, this figure should demonstrate that SAMRO has consistently created value for South African artists over the years. We pride ourselves as being a progressive and innovative organisation that always strives to maximise value for our members.”

Earlier this year, SAMRO introduced a system designed to enhance the collective management organisation’s (CMO’s) ability to collect royalties and monitor airplay on the Internet, TV and radio.

“We have recognised the need to digitally transform and embrace technologies that will streamline and accelerate the process of royalty collection on behalf of our members, who are mainly music creators, writers and publishers,” Maweni said, adding that in June the CMO unveiled an online registration process for users who want to apply for a usage licence to play music as part of their business offerings.

“This simplified process will not only ensure that our members can earn royalties faster through the quicker onboarding of registered music users, but will also enhance the experience for music users, who can now enjoy the use of their music at the click of a button,” he said.

“We are clearly responding to the needs of our primary stakeholders, which are our members. We will continue to roll out initiatives to assist our members to earn a decent living. As an innovative and progressive organisation, SAMRO is constantly seeking ways to create value for our artists.”