How to Work with Music Publishers and Land a Publishing Deal

Landing a publishing deal with the right music publisher can be a major milestone in any songwriter’s journey. Not only can it provide support and structure to your career, but it can also unlock new opportunities. 

But before you start reaching out to music publishing companies, it’s important to understand what a music publisher does, how publishing deals work, and the steps you can take to increase your chances of getting signed.

At WaterBear, we offer music degree courses for artists, musicians, and industry professionals, providing the skills and knowledge needed to build a sustainable career in today’s music industry.

1. What Do Music Publishers Do?
2. Do You Need a Publishing Deal?
3. How To Make Money from Music Publishing?
4. How To Get a Music Publishing Deal?
5. Turn Your Songwriting Passion into a Publishing Deal

Music publishers are responsible for managing the rights to your songs and ensuring you’re paid whenever your music is used commercially.  

The publishing industry predates recorded music, as historically the sale of sheet music was the main way musicians earned royalties. 

Today, publishers still manage songwriting rights, while record labels handle recording rights. Simply put: 

• Music publishers = songwriting rights 

• Record labels = recorded music rights 

Not every songwriter needs to sign with music publishers right away. Many start out self-publishing. 

However, as your career develops, a publishing deal can help maximise your income and expand your reach. A music publisher may pitch your songs for sync placements, collect royalties worldwide, and provide creative support. 

A publishing deal isn’t a necessity, but for many songwriters, it becomes a key step in growing their career. 

There are two main ways songwriters earn money through music publishers: royalties and advances: 

• Royalties – long-term earnings from the use of your music. 

• Advances – upfront payments against future royalties. 

Advances vary depending on your status as a songwriter – established writers usually secure larger advances, while emerging artists may receive smaller ones or none at all. 

Once your advance is recouped, royalties are split between you and your music publisher, depending on your publishing deal.

Securing a music publishing deal requires skill, preparation, and strategy. Here are some key tips: 

To stand out to music publishers, you need to demonstrate consistent songwriting ability. Write regularly, set goals, and build a catalogue of strong songs before approaching a publisher. 

Our Songwriting department at WaterBear is made up of some of the most accomplished, active songwriters in the industry, each bringing their skills, insights, and networks to help you develop your songwriting abilities and career.

Writing with other songwriters and producers not only strengthens your skills but also expands your network, increasing your chances of being introduced to music publishers.  

Collaborating with someone already signed to a publisher can create a direct pathway to getting a publishing deal. 

At WaterBear, we regularly host exciting events at our partner venues across our city campuses, as well as at our own spaces – The WaterBear Venue and The WaterBear Music Bar in Brighton. We also run songwriting workshops throughout the year, providing plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate.

In today’s music industry, being a multiskilled musician makes you more attractive to music publishers. Beyond writing, focus on recording high-quality demos and honing your vocal skills. The more self-sufficient you are, the more valuable you’ll be to a publisher, as they’ll save on outsourcing costs. 

We’re proud to offer state-of-the-art facilities at both our Brighton and Sheffield campuses, including recording studios, mix suites, a mastering suite, and access to professional partner studios across the city, providing plenty of opportunities to develop your production skills.

A track record of independent releases shows music publishers that there’s demand for your work. It’s proof that your songs can connect with listeners.

Don’t blanket email every company. Instead, research music publishers who represent writers in your genre.  

Building genuine relationships is key. Music publishers are more likely to sign someone they know and trust. If possible, attend industry events where you can meet publishers in person. 

At WaterBear, we regularly invite special industry guests to share their experiences, insights, and advice. Previous guests have included Universal Music Publishing Group and Daniel Jones from PRS.

When you’re ready, prepare a strong package that includes: 

• High-quality demos 

• Professional photos 

• A tailored cover letter 

• Links to socials and music platforms 

• Notable songwriting achievements 

A polished pitch can be the difference between being overlooked and landing a publishing deal. 

Our Music Industries and Artist Development Teams at WaterBear are always on hand to support you with pitching your music, refining your branding, polishing your EPK, and much more.

Signing with music publishers is a huge step, but it’s about more than talent, it’s about timing, persistence, and professionalism. 

By honing your craft, collaborating with others, and understanding the publishing music industry, you’ll be in the best position to secure a publishing deal that supports your long-term career. 

Remember, every successful songwriter started somewhere. Keep building, keep connecting, and your breakthrough with a music publisher could be closer than you think. 

At WaterBear, we equip you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the music industry. Our courses offer practical, industry-focused insights, guiding you at every step to build a thriving music career.

Discover what WaterBear can offer – Apply now, book an Open Day, or request a prospectus, to take the next step in your music career.