Pandora Cuts Direct Deal With BMG For All ASCAP & BMI Artists

Pandora has cut a direct multi-year agreement with BMG to its complete BMI and ASCAP catalog of music in the US. The direct publishing deal "creates marketing and business benefits for Pandora, BMG and the songwriters it represents," according to the announcement. It also represents a seismic shift away from the major influence previously enjoyed by America's two dominate performing rights organizations.

Laurent Hubert, President, Marketing & Creative at BMG Chrysalis North America has been a critic of both BMI and ASCAP. Universal cut a similar deal with Pandora in January. 

“Millions of Pandora’s listeners have long enjoyed the great music from BMG’s songwriters,” said Brian McAndrews, CEO of Pandora. “Our agreement with BMG ensures that we can continue expanding the audience for one of the world’s most storied music catalogs and demonstrates that collaboration between the music industry and Pandora creates opportunities and value for publishers and songwriters.”

Stay tuned for more as details emerge and the industry reacts.