How to Register with BMI in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide + Honest Review)
If you are a songwriter, music producer, or composer, getting paid for your music is just as important as creating it. One of the best ways to earn music royalties globally is by registering with BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.).
In this guide, you’ll learn how to register with BMI step by step, how it works, and whether BMI is worth it for independent artists in 2026.
What Is BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)?
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) is a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) that collects and pays performance royalties to songwriters, composers, and music publishers when their music is played publicly.
This includes plays on:
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Radio & TV stations
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Streaming platforms
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YouTube & digital media
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Live performances
Clubs, events, and public venues
BMI does not distribute music. Instead, it ensures creators get paid when their music is performed publicly.
Who Should Register with BMI?
BMI is ideal for:
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Songwriters
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Music producers
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Beat makers
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Independent artists
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Gospel & Afrobeat artists
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Nigerian and African musicians releasing music internationally
If you write or produce original music, BMI helps protect your earnings.
How to Register with BMI (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit the Official BMI Website
Go to bmi.com and click on “Join”.
Step 2: Choose Your Membership Type
You will see two options:
- Songwriter / Composer
- Publisher
Beginners should select
- Songwriter/Composer.
- BMI songwriter registration is 100% FREE.
Step 3: Create Your BMI Account
Provide:
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Full legal name
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Email address
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Date of birth
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Country (Nigeria and many others are supported)
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Phone number
Step 4: Enter Personal & Payment Details
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Home address
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Nationality
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Payment setup (bank or Payoneer later)
Step 5: Accept Terms & Submit
- Read and accept BMI’s agreement, then submit your application.
- Approval time: Usually between a few days to 2 weeks.
Step 6: Register Your Songs
Once approved:
- Log in to your BMI dashboard
- Click “Register Works”
Add: - Song title
- Writer name(s)
- Ownership percentage (e.g. 100% if it’s only you)
- Always register new songs
- immediately after release.
BMI Review: Is BMI Worth It?
Pros of BMI
- Free registration for songwriters
- Trusted globally with millions of members
- Collects royalties from multiple sources
Works well with distributors like:
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DistroKid
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TuneCore
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CD Baby
Cons of BMI
- Payments are quarterly, not instant
- Song registration is manual
- Dashboard design is outdated
BMI vs ASCAP (Quick Comparison)
BMI
- Signup fee: FREE
- Best for beginners: YES
- Payment schedule: QUARTERLY
- International artists: SUPPORTED
ASCAP
- Signup fee: $50
- Best for beginners: PAID
- Payment schedule: QUARTERLY
- International artists: SUPPORTED
BMI is the better option for new and independent artists.
Important Things to Know About BMI
- BMI does not upload or distribute music
- You still need a distributor (e.g. DistroKid)
- BMI collects performance royalties only
- Mechanical royalties require another service
Final Verdict
BMI is one of the best royalty organizations for independent musicians in 2026 especially beginners. With free registration, global coverage, and trusted royalty payments, BMI is a smart choice for songwriters who want to monetize their music properly.
