ASCAP

ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers) is a performing rights organization (PRO) that licenses the public performances of its members' musical works and collects and distributes royalties on their behalf. Founded in 1914, it was the first PRO established in the United States and remains the only major US PRO that operates on a not-for-profit basis. It is member-founded and member-governed, with a Board of Directors composed of songwriters, composers, and publishers who guide organizational decisions in members' collective interest.

The organization serves songwriters, composers, and music publishers across genres, including popular, symphonic, concert, and film/TV music. Beyond royalty collection and licensing, ASCAP provides resources such as a Wellness Program, production bootcamps, member education, and networking events like the ASCAP Experience. It also produces "VERSED: The ASCAP Podcast," featuring conversations with songwriters, composers, and industry professionals about their creative work and the issues affecting music creators.

ASCAP is active in research, advocacy, and policy work related to artificial intelligence and its impact on music creation, distribution, and creator compensation. Through initiatives like the ASCAP Lab, it partners with academic and industry stakeholders on AI-related challenges and educational programs. It has also supported legislation such as the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act, advocating for creator-centric principles in AI's development and use within the music industry.