In the modern era, the path of a songwriter is filled with both challenges and exciting opportunities. From recent updates in royalty rates to the adoption of innovative technologies like blockchain, the landscape for songwriters is evolving rapidly. In this blog, we will explore the current state of the industry and how songwriters can adapt to maximize their success.

Exciting news for songwriters! The Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) has accepted a music industry-wide settlement, known as ‘Phonorecords IV’ or ‘CRB IV,’ which will gradually increase streaming royalty rates in the United States from January 1, 2023. By 2027, songwriters and music publishers will be paid a headline rate of 15.35% of a streaming service’s US revenue. This development marks a significant step towards fair compensation for songwriters.

Songwriters camps have become increasingly popular, providing a collaborative environment for multiple writers to contribute to a song or songs. These camps foster creativity, networking, and the opportunity to work with diverse talents. Participating in songwriters camps can enhance your skills, expand your network, and lead to exciting songwriting opportunities.

With the industry’s evolution, it’s crucial for songwriters to document their work diligently. Songwriters should keep records of their songs, melodies, song concepts, and demos. This documentation not only safeguards their creative contributions but also assists in resolving potential disputes over ownership and credits. Thankfully, new technologies, such as blockchain, offer secure and convenient means of documenting provenance, ensuring transparency, and reducing conflicts.

The music industry is no stranger to technological advancements, and songwriters should embrace these innovations to their advantage. As companies develop tools and utilities utilizing blockchain and other technologies, songwriters, and producers can adopt them to streamline their workflows, protect their rights, and maintain proper documentation. These advancements contribute to a more transparent and efficient music ecosystem, benefitting both creators and industry stakeholders.

The modern era presents both challenges and exciting opportunities for songwriters. With improved streaming royalty rates and the rise of collaborative songwriters camps, the potential for success has never been greater. Simultaneously, embracing innovative technologies like blockchain ensures proper documentation and reduces disputes, creating a more equitable and transparent industry. Aspiring songwriters should stay informed, adapt to the evolving landscape, and continue honing their craft. By embracing change and leveraging new tools, songwriters can navigate their journey with confidence and unlock their full potential in the dynamic world of music.


Hakim Draper, the founder, and CEO of Artist Intelligence Labs, is innovating the music industry by fusing his profound musical background with state-of-the-art technology. With a diverse journey encompassing early encounters with jazz legends, pioneering endeavors in Silicon Valley, and executive roles at Warner Music Group, Hakim is reshaping the landscape by equipping creators with revolutionary tools and data-driven solutions. His leadership, unwavering commitment, and trailblazing spirit position him at the forefront of the industry’s transformation, driving innovation and empowering artists to reach new heights.

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