Music Publishing, Demystified
The Songwriter’s Desk
Two tools every new songwriter needs before their first co-write: a straight answer to a confusing question, and a fair way to put percentages on paper. Wondering who owns what, or how copyright actually works? Ask the Desk anything — copyright questions especially welcome.
Ask about publishing, royalties, or deals
Plain-language answers. No jargon left unexplained.
Hey — I’m here to help you make sense of music publishing. Ask me anything, from “what’s a PRO?” to “should I sign this deal?” Nothing’s too basic.
This gives general education, not legal advice. For an actual contract, have an entertainment lawyer review it before you sign.
Split Sheet
Writer
Role
Share
Total
100%
A split sheet records who wrote what share of a song — settle it at the session, in writing, while everyone still agrees. This isn’t a binding contract; get it signed, dated, and kept with your registration records.
Stuck on something?
Most questions get answered fastest right in the chat. For anything else:
↻ Replay the quick tour ✉ Email Norman directlyTypical reply time: within 1 business day.