Music Publishing News Roundup 5.31.15: PRS vs. Soundcloud • ASCAP Adds Exec • AIMP Songwriter Series

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UK based performing rights organization, PRS, is taking SoundCloud to court due to “no alternative but to commence legal proceedings.”It has come down to litigation because the streaming service is said to have continued “..to deny it needs a PRS for Music license for its existing service available in the UK and Europe” based on a letter seen by Music Week. PRS for Music has stated that "If the streaming market is to reach its true potential and offer a fair return for our members, organisations such as SoundCloud must pay for their use of our members’ music." We hope for the best outcome between these two prominent organizations.

ASCAP has added a new member to their executive staff – Mark Sperling, a veteran investment banker. His title is the senior vice president of strategy and business development and his role will deal with leading “efforts to expand partnerships and new alliances” at ASCAP. His experience with entertainment and digital media industries gives him significant experience to move forward with ASCAP’S visions. Let’s give Mark Sperling a warm welcome!

The Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) Nashville plans to host its Songwriter Series, which is sponsored by ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and Fifth Third Bank and is being hosted by music industry professionals and headed by Wrensong’s, Ree Guyer Buchanan. “AIMP Nashville wanted to create an annual event to celebrate new songwriters in the independent publishing community,” said Buchanan. The Songwriter Series is set to commence on September 22, 2015.