Does PRS (UK) collect from ASCAP or BMI?

[Rob Lorenzo]

Hi Taxi Forum folk,

I've just been asked this question and don't know the answer. Contacted PRS, however, was wondering if anyone knew the answer in the meantime?

Does PRS (UK) collect from ASCAP or BMI?

I was under the impression they collect from both organizations.

Thanks in advance if you can help!

[matto]

Rob,

they can collect from either, and I believe you can tell the PRS whether you want to go thru BMI or ASCAP for the US market.

[guitaroboe]

Hey man,
I agree with Matto.
However, in the long run you might want to join BMI or ASCAP directly.
I reside in Cyprus (which is covered by PRS because Cyprus does not have a PRO). I discovered
that the whole process of one PRO paying another is very lengthy, riddled with red tape and never
entirely accurate. So, I wrote PRS a letter informing them that I want to be released 'from all US territories' and
once I got released I applied to BMI for membership. BMI accepted me and now all my US performances
are handled directly by BMI. The whole process (release, application, etc.) took about 2 months to complete.
Unfortunately, PRS was the guilty party as far as the delays were concerned. BMI was faster and the employee who
handled my case was just wonderful. I'm so happy I did it!
take care
Adonis

[Rob Lorenzo]

Thanks both, that's both helpful and insightful.

[Rob Lorenzo]

Update

Had a response from PRS in London stating:

We have reciprocal agreements with all societies around the world so we will collect and receive royalties for and with all of them.

[mojobone]

True dat. I'm actually considering having PRS handle all (prospective) European licensing, cuz they appear to be a whole load more web-savvy than the domestic PROs.